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Recognizing Ralph Fuccillo’s Leadership and Service to Oral Health

The Santa Fe Group proudly celebrates Ralph Fuccillo, who received an Honorary Fellowship from the American College of Dentists during the College’s 2025 Annual Meeting. This honor, the highest the ACD bestows on non-dentists, recognizes individuals whose leadership and service have made a lasting impact on oral health and public well-being, a recognition we wholeheartedly share.

MUST READS

Dr. Dennis A. Mitchell Appointed Dean of Columbia University College of Dental Medicine

Columbia University has announced the appointment of Dr. Dennis Mitchell as Dean of the College of Dental Medicine. A long-time advocate for health equity and access to care, Dr. Mitchell has played a pivotal role in advancing diversity and community partnerships within academic dentistry.

Overjet Welcomes Dr. Natalia Chalmers as Head of Clinical Innovation

Overjet has announced Dr. Natalia Chalmers as its new Head of Clinical Innovation. A national leader in oral health policy and data-driven care, Dr. Chalmers will guide the company’s efforts to advance the use of artificial intelligence in clinical decision-making and patient outcomes.

Tool Developed at UW-Madison Helps Map Health Disparities Nationwide

Researchers at the University of Wisconsin–Madison have developed an interactive tool that visualizes health disparities across the United States, helping policymakers and public health experts better understand and address inequities at the local level.

CMS Modernizes Payment Accuracy and Significantly Cuts Spending Waste

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) announced new measures to modernize payment accuracy and reduce improper spending, reflecting a broader effort to strengthen program integrity and ensure more efficient use of federal health care funds.

Calendar Year (CY) 2026 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule Final Rule (CMS-1832-F)

On October 31, 2025, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) issued a final rule that announces final policy changes for Medicare payments under the Physician Fee Schedule (PFS), and other Medicare Part B issues, effective on or after January 1, 2026.

AROUND THE WORLD

World Diabetes Day: Understanding the Oral–Systemic Connection

In recognition of World Diabetes Day on November 14, BMC Oral Health features a Q&A with Dr. Dániel Végh, exploring the close relationship between diabetes and oral health. The discussion highlights how early detection, prevention, and coordinated care can significantly improve outcomes for people living with diabetes, reinforcing the global call for integration between oral and systemic health.

Length: 00:38:00 minutes

This episode explores the unique oral health challenges faced by U.S. veterans and highlights the critical importance of expanding access to dental care within this population. Listen to the President of the New Jersey Dental Association, Dr. Amit Vora.

REASON TO SMILE

Delta Dental Is Improving Veterans' Oral Health Through Free and Reduced-Cost Care

Delta Dental announced new efforts to improve veterans’ oral health through free and reduced-cost dental care programs, aiming to expand access and enhance overall health outcomes for veterans nationwide.