USPSTF Releases Statement on Screening, Prevention Interventions for Oral Health in Adult Patients

In November 2023, the US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) released a statement that concluded the current evidence is insufficient to assess the benefits and harms of routine screening for oral health conditions in adults.

“Oral health is fundamental to health and well-being across the life span. Dental caries (cavities) and periodontal disease (gum disease) are common and often untreated oral health conditions that affect eating, speaking, learning, smiling, and employment potential,” the USPSTF wrote. “Untreated oral health conditions can lead to tooth loss, irreversible tooth damage, and other serious adverse health outcomes.”

The organization based its recommendation statement on a systematic review that evaluated screening and preventive interventions for oral health conditions in asymptomatic adults aged 18 years or older. The review conducted by the USPSTF evaluated the accuracy of screening tests, effectiveness of screening, harms of screening, effectiveness of preventive interventions, and the harms of preventive interventions.

Additionally, the USPSTF concluded that current evidence was insufficient to assess the balance of benefits and harms of preventive interventions for oral health conditions in adults.

Reference:

US Preventive Services Task Force. Screening and preventive interventions for oral health in adults: US Preventive Services Task Force recommendation statement. JAMA. Published online November 7, 2024. doi:10.1001/jama.2023.21409