Published 04/24/2024

Poor Oral Health May Contribute to the Risk of Dementia

This visual report from CareQuest Institute examines current research on the links between poor oral health and the risk of being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD). It is estimated that by 2040, the number of individuals with ADRD in the US could reach 12 million, making it critical to determine whether improvements in oral health may prevent or reduce the symptoms of this disease. 

Is there a link between oral health and dementia? 

Highlighted research findings include:

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The Week: Doctors are taking on dental duties in low-income areas

April 24, 2024

"Poor oral health can have far-reaching consequences, not only as a precursor to other physical health issues but as a factor in depression and mental health issues," said Myechia Minter-Jordan, the president and CEO of the CareQuest Institute for Oral Health.

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The Conversation: Caring for older Americans’ teeth and gums is essential, but Medicare generally doesn’t cover that cost

April 24, 2024

"The Biden administration initially considered the addition of comprehensive Medicare dental coverage as part of its proposed Build Back Better legislation, a broad US$1.8 trillion legislative package designed to fix problems ranging from child care costs to climate change, but failed to get enough support in Congress."

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Memorable Sessions, Hot Topics, and Three Key Takeaways from the 2024 National Oral Health Conference

April 23, 2024

By Lisa J. Heaton, PhD, and Paige Martin, BA, science writers at CareQuest Institute 

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Answers to 11 Questions about New Recommendations for Patient Shielding

April 18, 2024

Many patients are used to donning large, heavy aprons when getting a dental X-ray. Since the 1950s, providers have thought it was vital to cover a patient’s body and throat for fear of exposing their reproductive organs, thyroid gland, and pregnancy to dangerous levels of radiation. 

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Insight Into Diversity: Rooted in Care RIDE Program Boosts Rural Dental Health

April 18, 2024

"Individuals in rural communities face a number of barriers in accessing oral care, including financial concerns, lack of insurance coverage, shortage of providers, and difficulty accessing transportation services, according to the 2023 report “Still Searching: Meeting Oral Health Needs in Rural Settings” by CareQuest Institute for Oral Health, a nonprofit organization.

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IndyStar: Nearly 370,000 Hoosiers lost dental insurance last year. Here's what happened.

April 18, 2024

Indiana's steep drop in insured families came after a national pandemic-era policy ensuring Medicaid dental coverage ended, according to Dr. Kaz Rafia, chief health equity officer at Boston-based CareQuest Institute for Oral Health, which released the study.Nationwide, 12 million people lost dental insurance.

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US News: Where the Presidential Candidates Stand on Retirement

April 16, 2024

“Medicare dental coverage is a critical, but often overlooked, retirement issue,” said Melissa Burroughs, policy director at the Washington-based CareQuest Institute for Oral Health, in an email. “Medicare does not cover dental care, making it unaffordable and out of reach for many Medicare enrollees.”

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Savannah Magazine: When Teeth Become Trendy

April 16, 2024

"For the estimated 68.5 million adults who lack dental insurance in the United States, according to the 2023 State of Oral Health Equity in America survey from CareQuest Institute, that individual care can seem elusive. There are options, though, that are much safer than DIY care."

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