Increased Funding to Dental Research, Education, Access Programs

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEMARCH 2001

CONTACT:Fred Peterson[email protected]

Leslee Williams[email protected]312-440-2806

American Dental Association Health Foundation IncreasesFunding to Dental Research, Education, Access Programs

CHICAGO -- The American Dental Association Health Foundation (ADAHF) -- the charitable arm of the American Dental Association (ADA) -- awarded more than $800,000 in funding in 2000, up 25 percent from 1999 totals, according to Anthony R. Volpe, D.D.S., president of the ADAHF Board of Directors.

"Our increased funding of programs in support of dental research, education and access to care clearly demonstrates we are making dentistry better for dentists and the patients they serve," Dr. Volpe said.

The ADAHF funds a wide range of programs aimed at improving dentistry's understanding of oral diseases and increasing both access to and quality of dental care for all populations. It funded more than 57 programs in 2000, up from 30 in 1999.

Since 1995, the Foundation has provided grants totally nearly $3,500,000 in funding for dental research, education programs, student scholarships, patient-care projects, and programs to increase public awareness of dentistry's contribution to healthcare.

The ADA Board of Trustees established the ADAHF in 1964 for research and educational programs. With reorganization in 1994, the Foundation expanded its mission to address dental research, education, access to care and awareness activities.

In dental research, the Foundation supports activities that address issues of importance to practicing dentists and expedites the transfer of technology from laboratory theory to clinical care. Its funding of access-to-care programs provides sponsorship of national and regional dental access programs that make dental care available to underserved populations and enhance preventive care education.

The ADAHF is the leading national charitable organization with the primary focus of enhancing clinical dentistry and the oral health of the American public.

"Consistent with its mission, the ADA Health Foundation is providing grants to programs across the country that will improve the practice of dentistry and the oral health of all Americans," Dr. Volpe explained. "By supporting advancements in dental research, education, access to care and awareness, we are significantly advancing the oral health of the public and the practice of dentistry."

For more information about the ADAHF, visit its Web site at www.adahf.org.

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