Diverse Dental Society seeks to eliminate disparities, increase oral health equity

Three dental organizations have united in the name of health equity.

The Diverse Dental Society comprises three minority oral health professional organizations: the Hispanic Dental Association, National Dental Association and Society of American Indian Dentists. The groups said they are addressing unmet needs in under-resourced communities in order to eliminate disparities and increase health and oral health equity, according to a news release.

The Diverse Dental Society added that it considers the “integration of oral health throughout the health care infrastructure as essential for a healthier nation” and its goal is “to dismantle structural racism and advocate for social justice in the health of traditionally disenfranchised populations.”

“We believe in and advocate for oral health access, equity and education in marginalized communities,” says Anna Munne?, D.D.S., Diverse Dental Society president. “That said, we are an inclusive organization and encourage membership of all dental professionals, regardless of race, color, creed or national origin. The DDS is for everyone committed to social justice in health.”

“With the Colgate brand in more homes than any other, we can, and we will create a healthier, cavity-free future for all,” said Marsha Butler, D.D.S., vice president, Global Oral Health and Professional Relations, Colgate-Palmolive. “That is why we support the vision and mission of the [Diverse Dental Society] and its noble efforts to provide minority health professionals with a platform for addressing the oral health care needs of vulnerable communities throughout the U.S.”

The Diverse Dental Society will hold its first national conference June 17-20 in a virtual formal. The conference theme is “Shape the Future” with the hashtag, #indivisiblewithdentistryandjustice for all.

For more information, visit www.diversedentalsociety.org.