CHICAGO: On the eve of President Donald Trump's inauguration as the 47th President of the United States, American Dental Association (ADA) President Dr. Brett Kessler emphasized the critical importance of oral health in an op-ed for The Washington Post. Dr. Kessler highlighted the integral connection between oral health and overall well-being, citing research from the ADA's Forsyth Institute and the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research that links oral health to systemic conditions such as heart disease, Alzheimer's disease, and diabetes.
Dr. Kessler expressed concern over the significant barriers many Americans face in accessing dental care, noting that tens of millions suffer from oral health issues due to financial constraints or lack of insurance coverage. He illustrated the profound impact of oral health problems on quality of life, stating, "Imagine not being able to chew food, speak clearly, or smile because of pain, infection, or missing teeth."
To address these challenges, Dr. Kessler proposed three key reforms:
- Dental Insurance Reform: Advocating for policies that make dental care more affordable and accessible.
- Prevention: Encouraging regular dental visits, a balanced diet low in ultra-processed foods, and maintaining robust community water fluoridation initiatives.
- Oral Health Literacy: Promoting education to help individuals understand the importance of oral health and how to maintain it.
Water fluoridation, a proven measure to prevent cavities, has become a contentious issue following the appointment of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as Secretary of Health and Human Services. Kennedy has advocated for the removal of fluoride from drinking water, labeling it an "industrial waste" hazardous to human health. This stance has sparked debate, as numerous studies and public health organizations, including the ADA, support water fluoridation as a safe and effective public health measure.
In September 2024, a U.S. federal judge directed the Environmental Protection Agency to further regulate fluoride in drinking water, acknowledging uncertainties about its impact on children's IQs while noting potential risks.
Dr. Kessler's call to action underscores the ADA's commitment to improving oral health nationwide. He emphasized the need for a prepared and robust dental workforce to deliver necessary care to all Americans, highlighting the importance of enhancing recruitment and retention of dental professionals to serve communities lacking access to oral health services.