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As we enter March, we recognize several important moments across the oral health community. Dental Assistants Recognition Week highlights the essential contributions of dental assistants to patient care and practice excellence. We also observe National Dentist Day, acknowledging the leadership, clinical expertise, and advocacy efforts of dentists across the country. Later this month, World Oral Health Day, reminds us of the global importance of oral health as a fundamental component of overall health.

Our March feature reflects on the strength of the oral health workforce and the shared responsibility we carry in advancing whole person health and global impact.

JOURNALS, REPORTS & WHITE PAPERS

The Impact of Dental Assistants in Modern Oral Healthcare:
A Literature Review 

This literature review examines the evolving role of dental assistants in clinical practice, highlighting their contributions to workflow efficiency, infection control, patient education, and overall quality of care. The findings underscore the importance of supporting and strengthening the dental team as oral healthcare delivery continues to advance.

Interdisciplinary Strategies for Improving Oral Health in Older Adults: A Comprehensive Review

This comprehensive review explores collaborative care models designed to improve oral health outcomes for older adults. The authors discuss interdisciplinary approaches that integrate dental, medical, and community-based services to address complex health needs in aging populations.

How Ending Water Fluoridation Would Affect Children and State Medicaid Costs

This policy analysis examines the projected impact of discontinuing community water fluoridation, including increased rates of dental disease among children and higher Medicaid expenditures. The report provides data-driven insight into the public health and economic implications of fluoridation policy decisions.

Editorial: Advancing the Science and Scholarship of Health Equity

This editorial highlights the importance of rigorous research and scholarship in advancing health equity. It calls for continued investment in data, interdisciplinary collaboration, and systemic approaches to reduce disparities and improve access to care across populations.

AROUND THE WORLD

Integrating oral health into primary healthcare: lessons from project OHE-NCHeW (oral health education for nurses and community health workers) in Nigeria

This article examines a workforce training initiative in Nigeria that equips nurses and community health workers with oral health education and preventive skills. The project offers practical lessons on integrating oral health into primary care settings to expand access and strengthen community-based prevention.

Length: 00:51:05

A look at the top trends and challenges for dentists in 2026. Dr. Marko Vujicic, chief economist and vice president of the ADA Health Policy Institute, shares the industry predictions to help you prepare for the year ahead.