Abstract
The American Dental Association (ADA) defines "Health Equity" as the attainment of optimal oral health for all individuals, acknowledging oral health's crucial role in overall well-being. The article underscores the need for consistent and equitable access to oral care services, collaboration with other organizations to address societal health determinants, and enhancing diversity within healthcare providers and cultural understanding in dental teams to achieve Health Equity. Highlighting the impact of untreated dental disease on quality of life and productivity, the article discusses ADA's initiatives to promote Oral Health Equity, including advocating for comprehensive Medicaid benefits, promoting diversity in leadership, and supporting programs like Community Dental Health Coordinators and fluoridation initiatives. The ADA aims to reduce early childhood dental issues and improve maternal oral health outcomes through various collaborations and resources.
Recommended Citation
Rickert, Jessica A. DDS and Lense, Elizabeth Carmen DDS, MSHA
(2023)
"Update: Oral Health Equity and the ADA,"
The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association: Vol. 105:
No.
4, Article 4.
Available at:
https://commons.ada.org/journalmichigandentalassociation/vol105/iss4/4
Included in
Dental Public Health and Education Commons, Health Law and Policy Commons, Other Medicine and Health Sciences Commons
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