The new dentist for the 21st century looks upon the mouth as a center of vital functions. Many people build relationships with their dentist early in life, and dentists have the opportunity to encourage healthy habits in young people. Workforce issues compound access to care. The dental workforce is graying. More than 20 percent of dentists will retire in the next ten years.
Immediate solutions are necessary to avoid a shortage crisis.
Dental schools need more financing. The nation requires a sustainable dental health initiative to provide schools with more faculty research funds, creative initiatives to reduce student debt, address diversity issues, and promote academic dentistry. Oral health research through incentive programs must be encouraged. More than 90 percent of all systemic diseases are known to have oral manifestations, but we need to know more about the possible links between oral and systemic diseases. If you have comments or suggestions regarding the ADEA website, please contact webmaster .