One hundred years of leadership in oral health is a tremendous accomplishment for a professional association. From its first gathering of 46 dental hygienists in Cleveland, Ohio in 1923 to the 2023 Annual Conference in Chicago with over 1,700 in attendance, the American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA) has remained steadfast in their work of uniting and empowering dental hygienists to make a positive impact on the oral and overall health of the public.
The work of the ADHA is not limited to the United States (US). Collaboration and networking with colleagues from around the world play a key role in impacting global oral health and well-being. Sharing educational approaches, public health policies and research strategies all contribute to our growth as a profession. This centennial year has provided the Journal of Dental Hygiene with a unique opportunity to partner with the International Journal of Dental Hygiene for a dual publication. Authors from across the country have shared their original research on a wide range of topics impacting dental hygiene education and clinical practice for a global readership. International submissions have also included American authors as part of the research team, strengthening our collaborative efforts.
Key to this “Dental Hygiene Research: It’s Momentous!” issue are the papers highlighting the critical role that ADHA has played in empowering dental hygienists in the development of the unique body of knowledge for dental hygiene. Science based research, advocacy for direct access to patient care and support for the development of new workforce models for oral health care are all milestones in the dental hygiene profession. The importance of a professional association goes far beyond the list of member benefits and social events. The work of the ADHA can be seen in all aspects of dental hygiene. Empowering and supporting dental hygienists for the advancement of the profession, be it on a state, national or international level, benefits all oral health care professionals and the public we serve.
October is National Dental Hygiene Month in the US, a time to celebrate the work of dental hygienists and an opportunity to increase the public’s awareness of the importance of good oral health. Ongoing research efforts here in the US, and around the world, are needed to continue to provide the evidence-based foundation for clinical practice and for the preparation of the future oral health care professionals. This centennial year is a perfect opportunity to begin the next one hundred years of momentous research and collaboration!
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