3M hosts first annual oral health council

In too many places around the world, people are suffering immensely from poor oral health. Despite its critical role in overall health, oral care is often overlooked, resulting in a population that suffers.

Children who aren’t given proper access to care often have caries and struggle in school because they are in so much pain. These children grow up to become adults and elderly patients who aren’t nearly as educated or healthy as they could be. As a step to ignite worldwide change for oral health, 3M welcomed professionals and policy makers from around the world to the first-ever Oral Health Council on November 28-30, 2016 at the 3M Innovation Center.

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The meeting served as a forum for industry leaders from Chile, China, Bolivia, Colombia, the United Kingdom, Peru, Russia and the United States to share the challenges their countries face in delivering care to patients. Attendees learned from industry experts about preventive science innovations, how to better care for elderly, special needs and pediatric patients, and how to implement effective policy for oral health. Attendees walked away from the meeting with solid action plans to improve oral health in their communities.

“Governments are instrumental in influencing the standard for healthcare, so people with a voice must advocate for change-even if it starts small at first” said Simon Hearne, International Vice President for 3M Oral Care. “As a global industry leader, 3M is taking the responsibility to help people who can inspire change create a network that will aid them in promoting preventive oral care within their communities.” 3M plans to continue this global initiative, and looks forward to the impact this council will have on the future of worldwide oral health.