Global Oral Health Crisis with Dr. Maria Ryan, Colgate-Palmolive

Oral health is essential for overall well-being, as problems like cavities and gum disease can lead to serious issues, including heart disease and complications during pregnancy. In this episode, Dr. Maria Ryan, Executive Vice President and Chief Clinical Officer at Colgate-Palmolive, discusses the global health crisis of oral diseases, highlighting that 50% of people worldwide suffer from them. She emphasizes the need to integrate oral health into medical education and practice, noting the current disconnect between medical and dental professions. Dr. Ryan also touches upon the “Oral Health Quotient” (OQ), a tool aimed at educating the public on the importance of oral health, and the need to address the profound disparities in access to care, especially in underserved communities. She also advocates for preventive strategies, early education, and increased coverage of dental services to improve health equity.  Tune in and learn how dental health can impact overall wellness and why integrating oral care into healthcare systems is essential! Resources: Connect with and follow Dr. Maria Ryan on LinkedIn. Discover more about Colgate-Palmolive on LinkedIn and their website.