Healthy Smiles Healthy Hearts™ Recognition Program

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A patient’s oral health can be an indicator of overall health and well-being. Research shows that chronic gum inflammation may be associated with other chronic diseases including coronary artery disease and diabetes. Additionally, there are certain bacteria that live in the mouth that can travel through the bloodstream to other parts of the body, including the heart and lungs. While research has established a connection between oral health and cardiovascular health, linking these health specialties into an integrated care model remains a significant opportunity. 

The American Heart Association’s Healthy Smiles, Healthy Hearts™ initiative, in collaboration with Delta Dental, aims to improve health and well-being by helping dental care teams, primary care teams and patients to better understand and address the connection between oral and cardiovascular health.  

The Ready, Set, Go Implementation Guide was created to facilitate quality integration of blood pressure screen and refer into oral health practices. Once quality implementation is complete, our Healthy Smiles, Healthy Hearts Recognition program will acknowledge participating sites annually for their implementation and dedication to quality blood pressure screen and refer processes in oral health settings.

 

Ready. Set. Go.: Blood Pressure Screen and Refer Implementation Guide

Healthy Smiles, Healthy Hearts has created an implementation guide to assist dental professionals in the implementation of a quality-focused blood pressure screen and refer process as part of their workflows. Begin your quality journey toward becoming a participating Healthy Smiles, Health Hearts site by downloading the new Implementation Guide and Quick Guide! 
Download the Implementation Guide
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Register and stay in the know

All oral health sites should register with the American Heart Association’s® Healthy Smiles, Healthy Hearts™ Recognition Program, whether they would like to perform the data attestation for recognition or not. However, those sites that register will have access to the latest program information, tools, communications, and resources. Please retain your unique ID (once registered and received via email) to log in and complete your attestation prior to May 31, 2026.
Register Today

Attestation for Recognition Program Participation NOW OPEN

The Healthy Smiles, Healthy Hearts Recognition Program bridges the gap between oral and heart health care, helping patients, dental teams, and primary care providers address this critical connection. Starting January 2026 and ending May 31, 2026 at 11:59pm EST, participating sites can attest to completing several steps including:

  • Review of the Ready. Set. Go. Implementation Guide
  • Staff Training for the blood pressure screen and refer process
  • Use of validated blood pressure devices for blood pressure screenings
  • Identification of a dental site champion to monitor workflows and adherence

Submit your attestation and be recognized for your commitment to quality implementation. Please use your unique ID (sent via email upon completion of registration) to log in and complete your attestation. 

Complete your Attestation

The Cardiovascular-Oral Systemic Link: A Groundbreaking Interprofessional Course

Collaborative care between dental and primary care teams supports patient education on the link between oral and cardiovascular health. This foundational course helps your team understand and address these connections. CE credits available for dentists, dental hygienists, dental assistants, physicians, nurses, nurse practitioners, and physician associates.

TAKE THE COURSE
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Now that you are a participating site, what's next?

Sites that are registered and have completed the attestation will receive a recognition toolkit later this year following the closure of the submission window. The toolkit can be used to promote your site as a Healthy Smiles, Healthy Hearts recognition program participant. The toolkit includes, award icons, press releases, and other materials that your site can use to distinguish itself as a leader in overall health and patient-centered care. 

Do you have a question or need support? Please contact: [email protected]

Education and Training Opportunities

Recorded Webinar: Bridging Oral and Cardiovascular Health: A Discussion on the Connection and Coordination of Care

Medical and dental professionals explore the critical connection between oral inflammation and cardiovascular outcomes. This session will provide an understanding of the latest American Heart Association statement and its implications for integrated care.

Presenters will:

  • Guide attendees through the scientific evidence supporting the new statement
  • Explore practical implications for clinical care across both medical and dental settings
  • Highlight the relevant intersectional work of the Healthy Smiles, Healthy Hearts initiative

WATCH NOW