On Fri., Oct. 18, the Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry partnered with the California Dental Association to co-host a symposium on geriatric oral health care in California. The symposium developed as an extension of the April 2019 edition of the Journal of the California Dental Association that focused on oral health issues in older adults.

The aim of the gathering was to help build allies and coordinate efforts to meet some of the opportunities identified, mitigate some of the threats, and better prepare for the future needs of this growing and diverse segment of the population.

More than 40 leaders in dentistry, academia, public health, policy and patient advocacy from throughout the state attended the event, held at the Dugoni School’s campus in San Francisco. Activities included guest panels followed by breakout sessions exploring a wide range of issues: “Geriatric Education and Workforce Preparation,” “Access and Delivery Models” and “Policy, Patient, Payer and Legislative Perspectives.” Panelists included representatives from California dental schools, the California Department of Public Health, Justice in Aging, Delta Dental, Health Plan San Mateo, and In Motion Dentists. In addition, California Assemblymember Jim Wood, DDS (D-Healdsburg) participated as a panelist. The breakout sessions include SWOT analyses and group discussion to determine the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats to the oral health of Older Californians. 

The symposium featured opening remarks from Dr. Del Brunner, California Dental Association president, Dr. Nader A. Nadershahi, dean of the Dugoni School, and Dr. Elisa Chavez, professor in the Dugoni School’s Department of Diagnostic Sciences.

“I’m proud that this group of leaders has convened to discuss the issues and ideas that will help make our society a healthier one for our older adults,” said Dean Nadershahi. “The work you are doing today is so important, especially as our population continues to age. I know that today’s discussions will make an impact far beyond this room.”