Veteran Oral Health Week
Serving Those Who Served: A Week for Veteran Whole Health
Every November, AIDPH hosts Veteran Oral Health Week, a national campaign to raise awareness of veterans’ oral health needs, share trusted resources, and bring together partners committed to addressing oral health disparities among veterans. Through storytelling, data sharing, and community collaboration, AIDPH’s Veteran Oral Health Week amplifies solutions that improve access, quality, and justice in healthcare for those who have served. With AIDPH’s expanded focus on women’s health, mental health, and chronic disease, we’re designing this week to build on our strong foundation in oral health to address adjacent health conditions for veterans who bear unique health issues shared by their service, complex medical histories, financial and geographic barriers, and gaps in the existing healthcare system
Join us in 2026 as we spotlight veteran voices, highlight innovative programs, and connect leaders across public health, policy, research, and clinical practice.
Monday
The Landscape of Veteran Oral Health
AIDPH will kick off the week by introducing foundational knowledge of veteran oral health, helping stakeholders and community partners understand the current landscape for accessing, affording, and receiving care.
Tuesday
Building the Evidence for Veteran Oral Health
Since 2021, AIDPH has released more than a dozen issue briefs, peer-reviewed manuscripts, white papers, and visual reports to build the evidence base for veteran oral health. Recognizing the need for a permanent home for these resources, AIDPH launched vetdentaldata.org. This digital platform now serves as a central repository for veteran oral health research and advocacy tools, including interactive data dashboards, state profiles, peer-reviewed publications, and clinical education content.
Wednesday
Innovating Clinical Care for Veterans
Limited eligibility for dental care delivery and coverage through the VA means that veterans are more likely to be seen in a private practice setting. This day will highlight clinical care resources, the importance of trauma-informed care, and promising practices for innovating care delivery.
Thursday
Increasing Capacity for Veteran Oral Health
Workforce shortages impact veterans, particularly those living in rural areas. Leadership training and capacity building are critical aspects of equipping our oral health stakeholders with the tools they need to be successful. Thursday will focus on analyzing the network of community members and leveraging our collective capacity to support veterans and their oral health needs.
Friday
Advocacy in Action: Expanding Access to Care for Veterans
Each year, AIDPH leads advocacy activities at the local, state, and federal levels. We believe that everyone can be an advocate, whether it’s advocating for your patients to receive the best care or educating decision makers on public policy solutions. This week ends with a call to action and the tools for you to create change.