In this episode of Listening In (With Permission), Andréa Caballero of Catalyst for Payment Reform sits down with Caroline McLeod, a practicing dental clinician and leader at CareQuest Institute for Oral Health, for a deep dive into the overlooked world of oral healthcare—exploring why it’s far more than just teeth, and why health leaders need to pay attention.
Key Insights
Oral Health: An Untapped Driver of Systemic Well-Being
Caroline McLeod introduces CareQuest Institute, a nonprofit uniquely committed to improving oral health for all. She explains that CareQuest’s approach spans rigorous research, grant making, advocacy, education, and innovation—all rooted in the conviction that oral health is foundational to overall health.
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Oral-Systemic Link: The conversation highlights the mounting evidence that oral health is inherently tied to overall health. Untreated oral conditions can exacerbate, and even trigger, serious systemic diseases. Caroline draws from both research and direct clinical experience, emphasizing that integrating oral health into general healthcare is not just ideal—it’s essential.
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The Hidden Costs of Neglect: Poor oral health doesn’t just lead to pain and tooth loss—it’s closely connected to chronic conditions (like diabetes and heart disease), adding substantial cost and complexity to medical care. Caroline underscores that neglecting oral care can worsen health inequities and result in lost school and work productivity for millions.
Breaking Down Silos: Partnerships for Change
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Collaboration Is Key: CareQuest believes big change is only possible with strong cross-sector partnerships. Caroline expresses enthusiasm for working with organizations like Catalyst for Payment Reform, aligning efforts to build sustainable, systemic improvements that close the gap between oral and general healthcare.
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Innovation in Action: Besides clinical care, CareQuest invests in advocacy, data-driven tools, and educational resources—empowering both patients and providers to see oral care as a vital component of overall well-being.
The Bottom Line
Oral health is healthcare. Like other forms of care, its impact ripples through every facet of life. As Caroline and Andréa reveal, advancing oral health equity invites broad benefits—lower costs, healthier populations, and more resilient health systems. For employers, policymakers, and clinicians, the time to prioritize oral health is now.
To learn more about CareQuest Institute for Oral Health and their mission, visit their website.