Wisdom Tooth Project for the oral health of older adults: A web-based solution linking national and local resources

Ten thousand Baby Boomers reach retirement age each day, and many lose dental insurance coverage while simultaneously facing multiple chronic conditions. Are we ready to face the public health implications that poor oral health can cause for this rapidly growing segment of the U.S. population? A first step is communicating the importance of preventive oral health care and the oral-systemic link to older adults and their caregivers. Oral Health America (OHA), in a collaborative effort with Special Care Dentistry Association, will launch a web portal that will connect older adults and their caregivers with resources to improve the oral and overall health of our nation's aging adults. This robust web space will educate, connect, and advocate for the oral health of all older Americans, especially those most vulnerable. In 2012, OHA is leading a Connecticut-based pilot project to unite over 30 professionals dedicated to health care, human services, and community engagement with a goal of discovering ways for low-income and vulnerable older adults to access oral health care in the state while connecting care advisors of older adults with informative resources and support networks. The knowledge gained from this Connecticut collaboration will enhance the development of regional/state web portal pages, and with the help of other WTP strategies, will inform our most vulnerable populations about the importance of oral disease prevention and wellness across the lifespan.