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Dental Disease Research Paper

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GUM DISEASE: A MISUNDERSTOOD EPIDEMIC IN AGING AMERICA

Conclusion

As Americans are increasing their life expectancy, and more baby boomers are aging with their natural dentition, it is vital that policy makers and the public stop viewing oral health as a separate entity from health care and recognize that dental disease is preventable. Studies conclude that it is imperative to incorporate oral health into total health, therefore, improved oral health literacy, along with prevention, should be mandated (Jin, et al, 2016). Best practice guides regarding dental care need to be considered, especially in nursing facilities, as the culture explores a shift (Hearn, 2015). As to date, there is very little regulation of the oral health for residents in long-term care as the facility is only …show more content…

We must call attention to the value of incorporating oral health into overall health initiatives. Furthermore, lawmakers must be well-versed regarding the importance of oral health, so that legislated laws can include the oral cavity amongst comprehensive health care for our nation A national campaign, defining and promoting an urgent call to action, led by the Public Health Department, Center for Disease Control, as well as the dental profession, must provide educational information regarding the prevention of oral health. By using all aspects of social

GUM DISEASE: A MISUNDERSTOOD EPIDEMIC IN AGING AMERICA

and news media, the benefits of oral health must be the center of this campaign. These should include, but not limited to: 1. oral disease is preventable 2. prevention does not hurt 3. saves money in the long run 4. possibly reduce the risk of other systemic

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