News and Events

Oral Health in America: Advances and Challenges

As a follow-up to the Surgeon General's Report on Oral Health in America, this Report explores the nation's oral health over the last 20 years.

Oral Health and Prevention

Introducing Alabama's First State Oral Health Plan

A collaborative effort two years in the making, the Alabama Department of Public Health Oral Health Office is proud to present Alabama's first-ever State Oral Health Plan. This comprehensive plan contains desired outcomes that are both attainable and sustainable and will provide a benchmark for progress in oral health throughout the state of Alabama. The plan will focus on five primary goals: Increase access to healthcare, professional education and integration, health literacy, data and surveillance, and prevention.

View the plan and discover what's in store for the future of oral health in Alabama.

State Oral Health Plan

State of Decay Report

In Oral Health America’s newly released 2018: A State of Decay Report, Alabama rose to No. 29 from No. 50 in the new state-by-state rankings on the status of oral health and outcomes in Americans age 65 and older. This elevated ranking reflects a joint commitment made by state public health officials, other dental organizations, and the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Dentistry faculty, students, and alumni to improve outcomes in this population after an alarming last-place ranking in the previous report.

View a list of each state's rank for a list of each state's rank, including Alabama's rise!

On November 9, 2017, the Oral Health Coalition met for a special session to create a draft for the first Alabama State Oral Health Plan! This plan will serve as the benchmark for the next 5 years of improvements in oral health for Alabama residents and providers.

Also see: Big News in Alabama Oral Health