To view this email as a web page, click here.

October is filled with meaningful opportunities to shine a light on oral health and prevention. It is recognized as National Dental Hygiene Month and National Orthodontic Health Month, highlighting the important role of dental professionals and the impact of early, consistent care.

This month also brings World Smile Day on October 3, a reminder of the power of kindness and connection through a simple smile. On October 15, Global Handwashing Day emphasizes the vital link between hygiene and overall health, reinforcing that small daily actions protect not only our mouths but our whole well-being.

JOURNALS, REPORTS & WHITE PAPERS

Access to Oral Health Care and its Social Determinants Across the Lifespan in the United States

This 2025 study examines how social and structural factors shape oral health outcomes at every stage of life. The findings highlight persistent disparities in access to care, emphasizing the importance of equity-driven strategies and integration with broader health systems.

NIH launches landmark project on whole-person health and function

The National Institutes of Health has launched a groundbreaking initiative to better understand whole-person health, exploring how oral health connects with physical, mental, and social well-being. This project signals a growing recognition of oral health as a vital component of comprehensive care.

Investigating the link between oral health conditions and systemic diseases: A cross-sectional analysis

Drawing on recent NHANES data, this U.S. study reveals strong associations between common oral health conditions such as periodontitis and systemic diseases including diabetes and hypertension. The research underscores the need for medical-dental integration in chronic disease management.

Addressing disparities in oral health access and outcomes for aging adults in the United States

Older Americans continue to face disproportionate challenges in oral health, from tooth loss to periodontal disease. This article explores these disparities and calls for innovative strategies that bring oral health into aging and primary care agendas.

Every bite counts to achieve oral health: a scoping review on diet and oral health preventive practices

A comprehensive review of 107 studies shows how dietary choices, behavioral habits, and education programs play a crucial role in oral health prevention. The findings reinforce the value of nutrition and lifestyle as essential tools for improving outcomes.

AROUND THE WORLD

Oral Health in Latin America: A Policy Perspective Systematic analysis of public policies on oral health in Latin America (2020–2025)

A recent review highlights how oral health policy across Latin America remains largely focused on curative clinical services, with limited investment in prevention, promotion, and social determinants of health. The authors call for a shift toward comprehensive, equity-driven approaches that integrate oral health more fully into public health systems.

Length: 00:30:49

Dentistry Must Move Beyond Reactive Care

Anabella Oquendo, Associate Professor at NYU College of Dentistry, makes the case for moving beyond after-the-fact treatment toward prevention and whole-person care. She highlights the role of nutrition, sleep, social determinants, and new technologies like AI in shaping the future of dentistry.

October 28, 2025 | 3:30 – 7:30 p.m. EST

2025 Annual Awards

The Santa Fe Group extends heartfelt congratulations to all of this yearʼs Shils Award winners for their visionary leadership and impact on oral health. We are especially proud to recognize our Strategic Advisory Council members Dr. Maria Ryan and Stan Bergman, along with CareQuest and Colgate for their sponsorship and ongoing partnership. We also celebrate Christopher Fox, whose leadership and collaboration continue to strengthen our shared mission to advance oral health for all.

Subscribe to receive updates from Santa Fe Group
This email was sent to *|EMAIL|*
why did I get this? · unsubscribe · update preferences
*|LIST:ADDRESSLINE|*