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PROPOSED RESOLUTION
RECOGNIZING JUNE AS NATIONAL ORAL HEALTH MONTH
WHEREAS, National Oral Health Month is observed each June in the United States to raise awareness about the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene and its connection to overall health; and
WHEREAS, National Oral Health Month started getting official recognition and widespread backing from organizations like the American Dental Association (ADA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC); and
WHEREAS, National Oral Health Month evolved from ongoing public health efforts to raise awareness about dental hygiene and access to care, especially among underserved populations; and
WHEREAS, National Oral Health Month builds upon National Smile Month (UK-based, started in 1977), but the U.S. version emphasizes broader oral health issues beyond just smiling or appearance; and
WHEREAS, June was chosen as National Oral Health Month due to its alignment with summer activities and outreach events among children; and
WHEREAS, oral health affects other aspects of health such as heart disease, diabetes, pregnancy outcomes, and respiratory illnesses; and
WHEREAS, poor oral hygiene has been linked to conditions like Alzheimer's disease, showing just how deeply oral health is connected to overall health; and
WHEREAS, some groups are more likely to experience dental problems, including pregnant women, who are at higher risk of gum disease and cavities; and
WHEREAS, others include people with chronic conditions like arthritis, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, emphysema, hepatitis C, liver disease, or obesity; and
WHEREAS, those with weakened immune systems, jaw joint issues such as temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD), or bone problems are also more vulnerable; and
WHEREAS, additionally, current and former smokers, as well as those with unhealthy diets high in sugar or high-fructose corn syrup, are at increased risk; and
WHEREAS, many schools, clinics, and public health agencies use June to provide free dental screenings, educational workshops, and community events; and
WHEREAS, some bilingual campaigns, like those in English and Spanish, take place during Oral Health Month to reach more people, predominantly Hispanic and Latino communities, which are more heavily impacted by oral health issues; and
WHEREAS, taking care of one's oral health is essential for maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Cook County Board of Commissioners recognizes June as National Oral Health Month.
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