The Importance Of Good Oral Health

Listen now to About Health

94.1FM—KPFA.org (3/20/23) 

https://kpfa.org/player/?audio=397467

In 2000, in his Oral Health in America report, then-U.S. Surgeon General David Satcher declared that poor dental health was “A silent epidemic promoting the onset of life-threatening diseases, which are responsible for the deaths of millions of Americans each year.” Since then a mounting body of evidence has been connecting the inflammatory processes that cause gum disease with other medical conditions. Some of the major health conditions related to oral health include heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and cancer. And tooth decay is one of the most common chronic childhood diseases in the United States. Even the tiniest teeth can get cavities. Its never too late to change your habits for good oral health and reduce your risk of disease.

Unfortunately there are too many people who can’t afford dental care and don’t have access to affordable insurance. 

Guest

Dr. Jolie Goodman-Leibof is a general dentist, practicing in Oakland, CA. She completed her Doctorate of Dental Surgery at  the University of California, San Francisco School of Dentistry, and a 1-year Advanced Education in General Dentistry Residency at the University of New Mexico. Dr. Goodman-Leibof is very active in the dental community; she is a recent past president of the Alameda County Dental Society (ACDS),  she currently serves on the ACDS Board of Directors, and is the community outreach chair for ACDS. Having started her path in dentistry volunteering at the Berkeley Free Clinic, Dr. Goodman-Leibof is committed to addressing access to oral health care. As an advocate for access to oral health care, she volunteers regularly and has been recognized both locally and nationally for engagement in serving the community. Outside of dentistry, she has 2 children, and a very supportive husband.

Oral Health: A vital part of Good Health

toothbrush
Oral diseases become more complex over time—affecting a person’s ability to eat, concentrate, and be productive in school or work. Early intervention makes a huge difference, but over 108 million children and adults lack dental insurance.

Oral health is a critical component of health for adults and children. Two leading dental diseases, caries and periodontal disease, are widespread, but there is much more to discuss when it comes to good oral health.

TUNE IN NOW. If you missed our show you can listen here.

https://kpfa.org/player/?audio=236357

“About Health” June 27th 
KPFA Radio 94.1FM or online at KPFA.org

Guests:

Dr. Jared Fine served as the dental director for the Alameda County Public Health Department for more than 35 years. He has devoted his career to supporting the needs of special populations, including people with HIV/AIDS, those with low incomes, and those from minority groups. He has served as Chair of  the Scientific Advisory Committee for the California First 5 Oral Health Education and Training Project. As the local project coordinator of the Healthy Kids, Healthy Teeth Program, he promotes the oral health of infants and children in Alameda County, CA. Dr. Fine has been president of his local dental society, chair of the board of the Dental Health Foundation, and chair of the American Public Health Association’s Oral Health Section.
Dr. Ariane Terlet has a private practice in Berkeley, and is the Chief Dental Officer for La Clinica de La Raza in Oakland. Dr. Terlet served on the California Dental Board, and has served on the Government Affairs Council and Work Force Committees. She is very involved in Access to Care issues at both the State and National levels. She is currently serving on the Government Affairs Council for the American Dental Association.