New White Paper Released!
Research reveals how dental hygienists can take the lead in prevention, personalized care and strengthening patient engagement nationwide.
KEY INSIGHT: The Global Burden of Oral Disease is Staggering
Despite the advances in oral healthcare, periodontal disease continues to rise at a significant rate worldwide. These trends point to an urgent need for stronger prevention and earlier intervention.
KEY INSIGHT: Prevention is Essential
Gingivitis affects up to 90% of adults worldwide and is reversible with proper care. Without intervention, it can progress to periodontitis with serious oral and systemic health implications. Research also links periodontal disease with conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Prevention and early intervention are essential.
KEY INSIGHT: P4 Framework Provides a Proactive Model for Better Outcomes
The white paper outlines how the P4 framework (18) can guide evidence-based periodontal care and strength patient outcomes.
KEY INSIGHT: Hygienists are the Critical Catalysts of Change
The strategies outlined in the white paper are designed to help strengthen patient partnerships, support interdisciplinary collaboration and elevate the dental hygienist’s role from oral health caregiver to catalyst for change.
Learn more about how you can:
- Leverage the P4 model
- Employ risk-based approaches
- Utilize adjunctive therapies such as antiseptic mouthrinses
- Apply CDT codes effectively
- Adopt validated behavioral frameworks
Ready for Action?
See the Latest Evidence and Recommendations
Access More Resources + Evidence
References
1. Vujicic M, Atun R, Benzian H, et al. The economic rationale for a global commitment to invest in oral health. Presented at the World Economic Forum. White paper. May 2024.
6. CDC. Oral health. About periodontal (gum) disease. 2025. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/oral-health/about/gum-periodontal-disease. html. Accessed February 17, 2026.
7. Nascimento GG, Alves-Costa S, Romandini M. Burden of severe periodontitis and edentulism in 2021, with projections up to 2050: the global burden of disease 2021 study. J Periodontal Res. 2024;59:823–867.
18. Bartold PM, Ivanovski S. P4 medicine as a model for precision periodontal care. Clin Oral Investig. 2022;26:5517–5533.
White paper developed with support from Kenvue.