Volume 32, Issue 2 (2026)

The 2nd Quarter 2026 issue of The Articulator explores the growing intersection between oral health and whole-body wellness, with a focus on oral-systemic health, interdisciplinary collaboration and the role of dentistry in preventive medicine. Articles include:

• Dr. Brett Kessler examines what true medical-dental integration would require, including reimbursement reform, collaborative care models and expanded recognition of dentistry’s role in systemic health.
• Ms. Anne O. Rice explores the connection between periodontal disease, inflammation and Alzheimer’s disease, including the role of dentistry in dementia risk reduction and preventive healthcare.
• Ms. Lani McBeth shares insights on Systemic Tongue Mapping and how integrative assessment tools can support personalized, preventive oral-systemic care and patient engagement.
• Ms. Susan Cotten encourages dental professionals to “screen the screener” by prioritizing provider health, self-awareness and preventive care within the profession.
• MDDS President Dr. Bryan Savage highlights how MDDS, RMDC and the Integrated Healthcare Summit are helping dentists better understand and apply oral-systemic health principles in clinical practice.
• Dr. Allen Vean reflects on leadership, communication and maintaining human connection in an increasingly technology-driven dental landscape.
• Executive Director Shelly Fava provides updates on the Metro Denver Dental Society (MDDS) Strategic Plan, including member engagement initiatives, continuing education and the member-owned Mountain West Dental Institute (MWDI).