
A Message from the American Dental Hygienists’ Association
As the Journal of Dental Hygiene celebrates its centennial year, we are honored to present congratulatory letters from peer organizations and partners across the oral health community.
In August 1926, at the ADHA’s annual meeting in Philadelphia, the Association voted to establish its own journal. Under the direction of President Elect Ethel Covington, Miss Dorothy Bryant of Augusta, Maine was appointed as the first editor. Just months later, in January 1927, Volume 1, Issue 1 was published, launching a century of scholarship that would advance dental hygiene research and practice.
These messages reflect the types of collaborative relationships that have strengthened the journal, the ADHA and our profession over these 10 decades.
The organizations represented here — from periodontology and public health to dental research, industry leaders and international dental hygiene leadership — have long contributed to the dialogue around evidence-based practice of oral healthcare and patient outcomes. Their recognition of this milestone acknowledges the journal’s role not only as a publication, but as a connector within the broader oral health landscape.
On behalf of the ADHA and the Journal of Dental Hygiene, we thank each organization for commemorating this achievement. As we enter our second century of dental hygiene scholarship, we remain committed to the partnerships and collaborative spirit these letters represent.
Lancette VanGuilder, BS, RDH, PHEDH, CEAS, FADHA
President, American Dental Hygienists’ Association
On behalf of the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), it is my honor to extend our warmest congratulations to the Journal of Dental Hygiene as it celebrates its 100th anniversary. This milestone is a remarkable testament not only to the longevity of the journal, but to the enduring strength, leadership, and professional excellence of the dental hygiene community.
Since its founding in 1926, the Journal of Dental Hygiene has played a singular and indispensable role in shaping the landscape of oral health. As the premier peer-reviewed publication dedicated to dental hygiene research and education in the United States, JDH has been central to documenting the profession’s growth, elevating its scientific foundation, and strengthening the quality of preventive care delivered across the country.
As general dentists, we deeply value the collaborative partnership we share with dental hygienists and the integral role they play in promoting oral health. AGD and JDH are united by a common commitment to education, scientific rigor, and patient-centered care. Our organizations have long worked in parallel to elevate the standards of clinical practice, empower the oral health workforce, and improve outcomes for the communities we serve. We are proud of the strong, collegial relationship between our professions and of the shared belief that interdisciplinary collaboration is essential to the future of dentistry.
As you begin this centennial celebration, please accept AGD’s sincere appreciation for the journal’s extraordinary contributions to the field and for the vital role it continues to play in advancing oral health. We look forward to many more years of partnership and progress together.
Warmest congratulations on this historic achievement.
Marc J. Worob, DDS, FAGD
Academy of General Dentistry
President 2025-2026
On behalf of the American Association of Oral Medicine (AAOM), we extend our sincerest and most enthusiastic congratulations on the impending 100th Anniversary of the Journal of Dental Hygiene in 2026. A century of continuous, dedicated publication is an extraordinary milestone, a testament to your unwavering commitment to the dental hygiene profession and, by extension, to the global advancement of oral health.
Since its founding in 1926, the JDH has stood as the premier and sole peer-reviewed publication for dental hygiene research, education, and clinical practice published in the United States. That’s not just a statistic; it’s a bedrock of professional identity and scientific progress.
A Lasting Impact on Oral Health
I have the privilege of following JDH, your key contributions have been integral to shaping oral health and dental disease prevention. The JDH has consistently served as the essential scientific compass for the dental hygiene body of knowledge, publishing critical research that moves practice from tradition to evidence. The JDH has equipped countless practitioners with the science needed to elevate patient care.
Shared Professional Values and Collaboration
Our organizations, AAOM and the American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA), have long shared a core, fundamental value: a dedication to evidence-based, holistic patient care. Our mutual focus is not just on treating disease, but on understanding the whole patient and integrating oral health into overall well-being.
The partnership between AAOM and ADHA remains a vital force for progress in the oral healthcare community. This collaboration is only strengthened by the high-quality, peer-reviewed content that the JDH provides, which ensures we are all operating from the same advanced and scientifically sound playbook.
As you approach your centennial, know that the JDH’s legacy is one of profound impact, not just for the ADHA, but for the entire multidisciplinary team committed to oral health. Here’s to celebrating a remarkable past and eagerly anticipating the next century of scientific publication!
With profound respect and congratulations,
Dr. Jaisri R. Thoppay
President, American Academy of Oral Medicine (2025-26)
One Glenlake Parkway, Suite 1200, Atlanta, GA 30328
571.297.4003 | www.aaom.com | info{at}aaom.com
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry Congratulates the Journal of Dental Hygiene on Its 100th Anniversary
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) is honored to extend our heartfelt congratulations to the Journal of Dental Hygiene as it celebrates an extraordinary milestone—100 years of advancing the dental hygiene profession.
Since its founding in 1926, the Journal of Dental Hygiene has served as the leading peer-reviewed publication dedicated to dental hygiene research, education, and clinical practice. For a century, the journal has elevated scholarly dialogue, strengthened the scientific foundation of preventive oral health care, and supported generations of clinicians, educators, and researchers.
AAPD values the important role dental hygienists play in delivering comprehensive, prevention-focused care to children and families. The journal’s dedication to advancing evidence-based practice continues to support the shared goal of promoting lifelong oral health.
We are pleased to join the dental community in celebrating this historic anniversary and extend our warmest congratulations to the Journal of Dental Hygiene on a century of leadership and service—along with our very best wishes for the next 100 years.
Sincerely,
Thomas G. Ison, D.M.D.
President
211 East Chicago Avenue, Suite 1600 • Chicago, Illinois 60611
312-337-2169 • Fax: 312-337-6329 • www.aapd.org • www.mychildrensteeth.org
January 7, 2026
On behalf of the American Academy of Periodontology, I am honored to extend our heartfelt congratulations to the Journal of Dental Hygiene on reaching its 100th anniversary. This milestone reflects not only a century of scholarly excellence, but also a steadfast commitment to advancing the science and practice of oral health.
As periodontists, we deeply value our long-standing and symbiotic relationship with dental hygienists—one built on mutual respect, collaboration, and a shared dedication to improving patient care. JDH has long served as a bridge between these interconnected professions, fostering dialogue, research, and professional growth that strengthen the entire dental community.
Please accept our warmest wishes for continued success and many more years of leadership and innovation in healthcare education and research.
With sincere congratulations,
Ana Becil Giglio, DDS, FACD, FICD
President
American Academy of Periodontology
For one hundred years, the Journal of Dental Hygiene (JDH) has chronicled and advanced the science, education, and clinical practice that de8ne the dental hygiene profession. From its earliest issues in 1926 to the present day, JDH has been a trusted source of evidence-based knowledge that strengthens both the profession and the broader oral health community.
The American Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research (AADOCR) celebrates this remarkable milestone and the journal’s enduring impact on improving oral health in the United States. As the premier U.S. organization dedicated to advancing dental, oral, and craniofacial research, AADOCR shares JDH’s commitment to fostering discovery, collaboration, and translation of research into better patient care.
Dental hygienists have long been valued members of AADOCR—scientists, educators, and clinicians whose research and leadership continue to shape the 8eld. Many have served in key leadership positions, helping guide the organization’s mission to support excellence in research and strengthen the bridge between science and practice.
The centennial of JDH is more than a celebration of a publication—it marks a century of progress in understanding, preventing, and managing oral diseases. AADOCR is proud to honor this legacy and looks forward to a future of continued partnership in advancing the health and well-being of communities across the nation.
Sincerely,
Effie Ioannidou, DMD, MDSc
AADOCR President
December 15, 2025
Dear Journal of Dental Hygiene,
It is with sincere pleasure that ADEA congratulates you on the 100th anniversary of the Journal of Dental Hygiene (JDH). The Journal’s dedication to advancing the science, practice and education of the dental hygiene profession is an extraordinary accomplishment. JDH has served as a resource for clinicians, researchers, educators and students. Its rigorous peer-review process and dedication to scientific integrity have set the standard in the dental professions.
We also honor the authors, reviewers and editorial team whose endless hours of commitment have enriched the profession of dental hygiene, and as dental hygiene continues to serve the public, the journal remains a guiding voice.
As you look ahead to the next century, may your publication continue to champion excellence and empower dental hygienists to make meaningful contributions to all areas of oral health.
With gratitude and heartfelt congratulations on this historic achievement,
Karen P. West, D.M.D., M.P.H.
President and CEO
November 13, 202
To the Editorial Team of the Journal of Dental Hygiene:
On behalf of the Canadian Dental Hygienists Association (CDHA), I am delighted to extend heartfelt congratulations to the Journal of Dental Hygiene (JDH) on the occasion of its 100th anniversary. This remarkable milestone is a testament to a century of leadership, scholarship, and unwavering commitment to advancing the dental hygiene profession.
Since its inception in 1926, the Journal of Dental Hygiene has served as an essential resource for clinicians, researchers, and educators. Its dedication to editorial independence and scientific rigor has elevated the profession and strengthened the foundation upon which dental hygienists deliver quality care. The vision of those early leaders has truly shaped generations of practitioners and educators.
CDHA shares these values and has welcomed the opportunities to collaborate over the years. Our associations have long worked towards common goals—improving oral health outcomes, promoting lifelong learning, expanding the dental hygiene body of knowledge, and advocating for the profession’s growth. The centennial of JDH is a perfect opportunity to celebrate this legacy and our collective achievements.
As you embark on this year-long commemoration, please know that CDHA stands with you in honouring the past and inspiring the future. Congratulations on 100 years of excellence. May the next century see your journal continue its critical work in advancing knowledge to improve oral health for all.
Sincerely,
Donna Lee
President
12/03/2025
To the Journal of Dental Hygiene,
All of us at CareQuest Institute for Oral Health extend our heartfelt congratulations to the Journal of Dental Hygiene (JDH) as you celebrate your centennial year! This milestone reflects a century of leadership in advancing oral health and education. For 100 years, JDH has led the transformation of dental hygiene by fostering innovation and evidence-based practice — and we’re humbled to count ourselves as one of your partners.
Your work has shaped the dental hygiene profession and improved the health of countless communities. And your dedication to publishing cutting-edge research has empowered dental hygienists and the broader dental industry to stay informed and make decisions grounded in evidence. Through initiatives like the National Dental Hygiene Research Agenda, JDH has strengthened the profession’s unique body of knowledge across basic, behavioral, clinical, and translational research.
CareQuest Institute values our partnership with JDH. Our collaborative efforts to design and publish research and educate providers reflect our shared values and dedication to advancing accessible, equitable, and integrated care. A few noteworthy examples come to mind:
-
Our collaboration with ADHA produced two interactive licensure maps — covering initial licensure and renewal requirements — that simplify access to critical information for dental hygienists.
-
Building on our collaborative work, we also partnered to generate insights and shared knowledge to strengthen the profession. Our joint dental hygiene survey provided novel insights into workforce challenges and protective factors, offering valuable data to inform strategies that enhance the sustainability and resilience of the dental hygiene workforce.
-
CareQuest Institute and ADHA collaborated on an invaluable presentation titled “Evidence-Based Practice: Aligning Care with Patient Values and Preferences.” This webinar emphasized the importance of integrating scientific evidence with patient-centered care, reinforcing our shared commitment to advancing quality and equity in oral health services.
Together, through these examples and much more, we strive to ensure dental professionals have the tools and knowledge to deliver care that improves both oral and overall health.
Congratulations again on this historic achievement. We look forward to continuing our partnership and supporting JDH’s mission for the next century and beyond.
Sincerely,
Your Friends at CareQuest Institute for Oral Health
CareQuest Institute for Oral Health
Boston, MA
465 Medford Street, Suite 500, Boston, MA 02129
On behalf of the Delta Dental Foundation of Michigan, Ohio, and Indiana (DDF), congratulations to the Journal of Dental Hygiene for a century of advancing the profession, strengthening clinical practice and elevating preventive oral health care.
The DDF is dedicated to developing and enhancing partnerships and programs to improve health equity in oral and overall health, and a strong hygienist workforce is key to that mission.
The American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA) recognizes that recruiting and retaining trained, educated, licensed professionals is critical to growing the oral health workforce our communities so desperately need.
That’s precisely why we partnered with the ADHA to create Hygienist Inspired, a unique chairside recruitment program aimed at expanding the workforce. The program, which launched in nine pilot states in 2025, harnesses the expertise and influence of hygienists to spark interest in the profession. Key features of the program include:
-
A clear pathway for interested individuals to explore the dental hygiene profession through the ADHA website;
-
The RDH Ready Checklist, providing step-by-step guidance for those considering a dental hygiene career;
-
Connection to dental hygiene education programs, scholarship opportunities and mentorship;
-
Resources highlighting the diverse career paths in dental hygiene; and
-
multi-language materials tailored to diverse audiences, including parents, high school students and career changers.
We’re grateful for the leadership the ADHA and the Journal of Dental Hygiene provide in confronting our industry’s thorniest challenges and in shaping the future of oral health. Congratulations again on 100 years of excellence. We look forward to continuing this important work together.
With appreciation,
Holli Seabury, EdD
Executive Director
Delta Dental Foundation
January 2026
On behalf of Elevate Oral Care, we are honored to congratulate the Journal of Dental Hygiene on its 100th anniversary. For a century, JDH has been a trusted and respected voice for the dental hygiene profession, supporting the advancement of research, education, clinical practice, and fostering evidence-based care across the profession. We are proud to support the mission of JDH and celebrate its pivotal role in documenting the evolution of dental hygiene. The journal’s commitment to thoughtful, high-quality research and editorial excellence has helped shape best practices and encouraged meaningful collaboration across the oral health community.
At Elevate Oral Care, we share JDH’s commitment to evidence-based research, as highlighted in our recent campaign, Real Patients Deserve Real Science. This initiative reflects our dedication to ensuring that clinical decisions are guided by high-quality research, promoting the best outcomes for patients and supporting dental professionals in delivering exceptional care.
Elevate Oral Care remains committed to advancing oral health, supporting dental hygiene professionals, and driving innovation in patient-centered care. We are grateful for our partnership with ADHA and JDH and look forward to the next 100 years of continued collaboration and professional excellence.
Congratulations on this significant milestone!
Hayley Buckner, RDH, BS, FADHA
Professional Relations Manager
Elevate Oral Care®
On behalf of Heartland Dental, it is our privilege to congratulate the Journal of Dental Hygiene on its 100th anniversary. For a century, JDH has been a powerful voice for advancing research, education, and clinical excellence, shaping the evolution of the dental hygiene profession and strengthening evidence-based patient care.
Heartland Dental is proud to support a profession rooted in knowledge and innovation. Through our commitment to continuing education, professional development, and collaborative learning, we strive to empower dental hygienists to thrive as clinical leaders. The research and scholarship shared through JDH continues to inspire growth, elevate standards, and enhance the care hygienists deliver every day.
We are grateful for our continued partnership and value the shared commitment to advancing oral health and supporting the dental hygiene community. Congratulations on this extraordinary milestone and thank you for a century of impactful leadership. We look forward to celebrating the continued advancement of the profession together.
Here’s to the next 100 years!
On behalf of Heartland Dental,
Lori Hall
VP of Clinical Operations
Amber Mendoza
Director of Hygiene Operations
On behalf of the International Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research (IADR), it is a pleasure to extend our warmest congratulations to the Journal of Dental Hygiene (JDH) on its 100th anniversary.
For a century, JDH has stood as the definitive scholarly voice for dental hygiene research, education, and clinical practice—advancing the science that underpins oral health promotion and disease prevention. The journal’s steadfast commitment to disseminating high-quality, evidence-based research has enriched not only the dental hygiene profession but also the broader oral health research community worldwide.
IADR is proud to count many dental hygienist/researchers among our members — colleagues who have made meaningful contributions to the mission of the IADR and have served on numerous committees and on the IADR Board of Directors. Their leadership and scholarship embody the interdisciplinary collaborative voice that strengthens oral health research across all professional domains.
The IADR Oral Health Research Group (OHRG), founded in 1994, shares JDH’s dedication to advancing our understanding of oral health care behaviors, disease prevention, and health promotion. Together, the efforts of JDH and OHRG have helped to clearly define and publicize the essential role of research in improving oral health outcomes globally.
As JDH celebrates its centennial, we salute the journal’s enduring legacy and look forward to continued collaboration in shaping the next century of innovation and discovery in oral health.
With sincere congratulations,
Pamela Yelick, PhD
IADR President
Catherine K. Draper, RDH, MS, FADHA
Editor in Chief, Journal of Dental Hygiene
December 1, 2025
Dear Cathy,
On behalf of the International Federation of Dental Hygienists, please accept our sincere congratulations on the 100th anniversary of the Journal of Dental Hygiene! This significant milestone is possible because of the foresight and dedication of those dental hygiene professionals who came before – the pioneers in our profession who knew the possibilities if we continually reached for exceptionalism. This 100th anniversary is also possible because of your exceptional leadership as the Editor in Chief and your commitment to disseminate evidence-based, cutting-edge information for the betterment of our profession.
The International Federation of Dental Hygienists shares the goal of the Journal of Dental Hygiene to elevate our profession and to continually promote our significant contributions to public health. We know that dental hygienists are vital to not only ensuring oral health, but overall health and wellbeing. We believe that the dental hygiene profession is poised to become even more meaningful as our scope of practice is broadened into the wider health care community. The Journal of Dental Hygiene is key in enabling that advancement by publishing the research findings and practical applications that lead us in that direction.
Once again, congratulations! We look forward to many more years of publication excellence from the Journal of Dental Hygiene. And we know that our future colleagues will continue to benefit from this outstanding guide and chronicle of the dental hygiene profession.
Best Regards,
Jill Rethman, RDH, BA, FADHA
President, International Federation of Dental Hygienists
The International Federation of Dental Hygienists
100 South Washington Street, Rockville MD 20850, USA
• Phone: 240-778-6790 • Fax: 240-778-6112 • Website: www.IFDH.org
Congratulations ADHA on 100 Years of the JDH!
As one of the largest supporters of dental hygienists in the world, PDS Health can truly appreciate the incredible work you do and the many accomplishments you’ve achieved all these years. We witness it every day. Your research and education ensure that communities benefit from the latest insights and findings. The profession continues to advance, in large part due to your tireless work and efforts.
Together we are a powerful team that guarantees hygienists are seen, appreciated and thriving, extending even to the larger healthcare space. We’ve been honored to partner with ADHA for so many years and proud to witness the growth in areas like Dental Medical Integration (DMI) where hygienists are so critical. This year’s Integrative Health summit in May is another great example of this. We are proud to be a major sponsor and support this important event.
As the lead clinician helping patients obtain and maintain good oral health, today they are being recognized as clinical peers like never before, true oral healthcare professionals, preventing periodontal disease and much more. Due to the bidirectional relationship of diseases like diabetes, hygienists serve a key role in their patients’ well-being. They’ve expanded the concept of prevention, extending beyond the mouth to the heart, brain, lungs, and unborn.
We look forward to decades more of the ADHA’s leadership and groundbreaking research, studies and articles in JDH.
Cheers!
Gary J. Pickard
Senior Director
Government & Industry Affairs
PDS Health
- Copyright © 2026 The American Dental Hygienists’ Association
This article is open access and may not be copied, distributed or modified without written permission from the American Dental Hygienists’ Association.








