Integration of Oral Health and Oral Surgery into Medical Training

As the United States (U.S.) population continues to age, we need to promote a renewed perspective on oral health, helping policy makers understand the impact of poor oral health on older adults with chronic conditions. In this article we describe the issue of lack of oral health education in medical school curricula, the differences in dental school programs, and a brief history of Oral maxillofacial surgery DMD/MD programs in the U.S. In addition to an education focusing on technical skills, dental education should also address scientific, social, and health-related competencies. Not only should the lack of integration of oral health topics in medical curricula be addressed, we should also train future dental professionals on the systemic effects of oral conditions.