Oral health research often has the stated goal of improving outcomes for patients and populations, directly or indirectly. This is consistent with the principles of evidence-based dentistry and the need to use resources appropriately to maximize health gain. Equally, oral health policy should take account of the best available research evidence. However, the interface between these processes is generally unclear. This symposium will explore the pathways by which research data can be used effectively in shaping health policy, with an emphasis on alleviating health disparities and improving health promotion among vulnerable segments of the population. Speakers will discuss the current frameworks for policy decision-making and highlight the most impactful research data. The symposium will focus on ways of translating research evidence into policy at different stages in the life course, with separate presentations for child and older adult populations. In addition, there will be special emphasis on research-based policies for vulnerable population groups, such as those with disabilities. The role of advocacy groups in using evidence to support policy change in practice and help build resilience will also be discussed through a presentation from the Chair of the Platform for Better Oral Health in Europe. The presentations will be followed by a final plenary session that will facilitate discussion and highlight potential examples of research evidence translation and ways it can be used to influence of policy formulation. The topic of this symposium is widely applicable to oral and craniofacial research and it is supported by three research groups (Pediatric Oral Health Research, Geriatric Oral Research, Behavioural Epidemiologic and Health Services Research) as well as the Global Oral Health Inequalities Research Network.

The symposium will be recorded and available through IADR CE On Demand after the meeting for Continuing Education Credit.

1. How can research on vulnerable older adults influence oral health policy? Dr. Tatsuo Yamamoto, Graduate School of Dentistry, Kanagawa Dental University, Japan
2. How Can Research on Children’s Oral Health Influence Health Policy? Dr. Kimon Divaris , Associate Professor, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, United States;
3. Can research shape oral health policy for people with disabilities? Dr. Blanaid Daly, Trinity College Dublin
4. The Role of Health Advocacy Organizations - Experience From the Platform for Better Oral Health in Europe, Nigel Carter, Platform for Better Oral Health in Europe
5. Q&A session