On May 15, 2023, the U.S. Preventative Services Task Force (USPSTF) issued a request for comments on a draft recommendation and draft evidence review on screening and preventive interventions for oral health in adults. Specifically, the USPSTF considered recommendations for routine screening and preventative interventions performed by primary care clinicians for oral health conditions, including dental caries or periodontal-related disease, for asymptomatic adults. However, the USPSTF determined that more research was necessary on the accuracy, effectiveness, and potential harms of providing oral health screenings and preventive interventions in primary care settings to finalize the recommendation. USPSTF invites public comment on its draft recommendation statement and draft evidence review from May 23, 2023, to June 20, 2023. Find more information here.

Impact on General Dentistry: Dental health care is critical to promote and protect an individual’s overall health and wellbeing. Therefore, the AGD strongly believes that dental care is critical and necessary primary care, and that many poor oral health conditions can be prevented through routine visits to a dental office. However, delivering oral health care in settings outside of dental practices warrants careful consideration.