Medical professional organization efforts to increase oral health knowledge and practice

Dental caries is the most common chronic disease of childhood and a disease process that can begin as soon as the first tooth erupts. Unfortunately, for many children in the 0-3 year age group, oral health is often overlooked and access to dental care often limited. These children, however, frequently interact with a pediatrician or family physician. Thus, opportunities exist in the medical office to educate, guide, assess, and refer children and their families. Recognizing this opportunity and responsibility, the professional organizations of pediatrics and family medicine have increased their focus on educating members on oral health.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) updated its oral health policy, bringing it more in line with professional dental associations, made oral health a main issue in its strategic plan, published oral health focused articles in its publication AAP News, and provided grants to state chapters to implement oral health programs. The AAP's Oral Health Initiative has developed and distributed to members an oral health risk assessment CD-ROM and funded grants to make physicians and dentists available to train practices in oral health.

The American Academy of Family Physicians has published a number of articles in journals and home study programs on the role of family physicians in promoting oral health. The Society of Teachers of Family Medicine has developed an award-winning website that includes an oral health curriculum, PDA applications, pocket cards, and patient education materials. In addition, education on oral health is now an accreditation requirement in family medicine residency training.