15 6 FUTURE OFDENTISTRY

Global Oral Health

CHAPTER

8

As information about other nations' experiences and situations becomes more readily available, and the

United States population becomes more culturally diverse, Americans have begun to recognize the value of

approaching national concerns from a global perspective. New technologies such as the Internet have quick-

ened the pace and lowered the cost of communication. A new appreciation is emerging for the value of glob-

al opportunities to innovate and partner.

Health care in general and dental health care in particular, are benefiting from this new way of thinking

and the tools that are making it possible. Microbes have no geographic boundaries. Today disease travels

as quickly as information, perhaps faster.

The future of dentistry and oral health demands that the dental profession think broadly and act global-

ly. As the demographics of the country continue to change and reflect multiple cultures from around the

world, answers to many of the disease management, disease prevention, and health promotion questions will

be found through collaborations with other countries.

Through collaborative research efforts and shared data, many oral health problems that exist in countries

around the world may be effectively addressed. The ability of dental professionals to recognize and respond

appropriately to the different attitudes and practices of patients from other countries and cultures will also

benefit from the new global perspective.

Dentistry in the United States must be fully involved in international organizations and activities for

research, education, clinical practice, product development and distribution, and health promotion. This

involvement requires a commitment to learning from other countries and cultures and creates a mandate for

leadership with sensitivity.

The United States will benefit from dentistry's global involvement. Collaborative networks must be estab-

lished to facilitate funding and to implement activities related to research, education, and practice. Also, the

emergence of common markets increases the need and the opportunity to develop common standards for

product development, approval, and distribution.

Dentistry has evolved into a global profession in which collaboration among countries will result in bet-

ter oral health. In this age of rapid scientific advancement, information technology, and instant communi-

cation, the future of dentistry will depend on the ability to exchange knowledge and expertise with others

around the world in a free and open environment. Only through international cooperation and collabora-

tion will dentistry in the United States attain its highest potential.

To date, recognition and acceptance of a leadership role in international health have not been priorities

among dental professionals in the United States. The future of dentistry will favor a philosophy that joins

dentistry in the United States with the global dental community. Success in preventing and controlling oral

disease in the United States is increasingly dependent on an ability to share knowledge and expertise with

others around the world.

This chapter examines goals and mechanisms through which the dental profession can contribute to and

learn from other countries about improvements in oral health globally. Dental professionals can enhance the

oral health of the United States and other countries by participating in shaping the policies and regulations

related to dental education and research, dental practice, and international product standards.

This chapter discusses:

u The status of oral health worldwide and the contribution that comparative outcomes measurement can

CHAPTER OVERVIEW