A New Year for Oral Health: Prevention, Access, Well-Being, and the Future of Care
The beginning of a new year offers a moment to pause, reflect, and refocus on the fundamentals that sustain long-term oral health. As 2026 begins, oral health leaders, clinicians, educators, and policymakers continue to navigate complex challenges alongside meaningful opportunities for progress. January also brings renewed attention to mental well-being and maternal health, reminding us of the deep connections between oral health, overall health, and life-course outcomes.
Prevention, equitable access to care, and thoughtful innovation remain central to improving oral health outcomes and strengthening the systems that support them. To support this early-year reset, we have curated a selection of resources that highlight key themes shaping oral health today and into the future.
Prevention as the Foundation of Oral Health
Preventive care remains the cornerstone of oral health. Early-year dental visits play a critical role in identifying disease at its earliest stages, reinforcing healthy habits, and reducing the long-term health and economic burdens for individuals and communities.
National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR): Oral Hygiene
Health Resources & Systems Administration (HRSA): How to Take Care of Your Oral Health
Expanding Access and Advancing Equity
Ensuring access to oral health care remains a shared priority. Addressing workforce capacity, reducing disparities, and integrating oral health into broader health systems are essential steps toward more equitable and sustainable care delivery.
CareQuest Institute for Oral Health: State of Oral Health Equity
National Academy of Medicine (NAM): Integration of Oral Health and Primary Care: Communication, Coordination and Referral
Oral Health, Mental Wellness, and Maternal Health
Oral health is closely linked to mental well-being and maternal health across the life course. Stress, depression, and anxiety can influence oral health behaviors and outcomes, while oral disease during pregnancy has been associated with broader maternal and child health risks. Research continues to underscore the importance of integrated, preventive approaches that recognize these connections and support coordinated care.
American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists (ACOG): Maternal Health Awareness Day Webinar
Innovation and the Future of Oral Health Care
Technological innovation, data-driven care models, and artificial intelligence are increasingly influencing how oral health services are delivered, taught, and evaluated. As these tools evolve, thoughtful implementation will be essential to ensure they enhance quality, equity, and patient-centered care.
American Dental Association (ADA): Artificial Intelligence in Dentistry
Looking Ahead
As the year unfolds, the future of oral health will be shaped by how effectively prevention, access, and innovation are aligned in practice and policy. January offers an opportunity to set intentions, strengthen collaboration, and recommit to approaches that support healthier communities and more resilient oral health systems.
January Dental Notes
Mental Wellness Month – January
Maternal Health Awareness Day – January 23
Dental Drill Appreciation Day – January 26
Medical and Dental Group Practice Week – Fourth week of January
We look forward to continuing the conversation throughout the year and sharing resources that support collaboration, innovation, and equity in oral health care.
