Description
Book SynopsisThough it is highly preventable, tooth decay is a common chronic disease both in the United States and worldwide. Evidence shows that decay and other oral diseases may be associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes, respiratory disease, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes. However, individuals and many health care professionals remain unaware of the risk factors and preventive approaches for many oral diseases. They do not fully appreciate how oral health affects overall health and well-being. In Advancing Oral Health in America, the Institute of Medicine (IOM) highlights the vital role that the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) can play in improving oral health and oral health care in the United States. The IOM recommends that HHS design an oral health initiative which has clearly articulated goals, is coordinated effectively, adequately funded and has high-level accountability. In addition, the IOM stresses three key areas needed for successfully maintaining oral health a
Table of Contents1 Front Matter; 2 Summary; 3 1 Introduction; 4 2 Oral Health and Overall Health and Well-Being; 5 3 The Oral Health Care System; 6 4 HHS and Oral Health: Past and Present; 7 5 A New Oral Health Initiative; 8 Appendix A: Acronyms; 9 Appendix B: Organizational Charts of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; 10 Appendix C: Workshop Agendas; 11 Appendix D: Committee and Staff Biographies
