2026 AAPHD Educational Series: Water Equity is Oral Health Equity Webinar

Presented by the AAPHD Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Committee

 

Register Today!

Featured Speaker: 
Isabelle Stitt-Fredericks
Senior Program Manager of Water, Virginia Health Catalyst

Date: August 19, 2026
Time: 12:00 PM ET

Description:
Dental public health professionals often encourage water consumption over sugar-sweetened beverages and advocate for community water fluoridation for optimal oral health outcomes. However, these recommendations rely on public trust in drinking water, even though 40% of Americans do not trust their tap water. This presentation explores the connection between water equity, trust in drinking water, and oral health outcomes, and provides actionable strategies for engaging diverse communities and promoting access to and use of safe drinking water.

Who Should Attend: dentists, dental hygienists, dental students, researchers, public health professionals

Learning Objectives:
After this webinar, participants should be able to:

1. Understand how water trust and equity influence oral health behaviors and outcomes.

2. Recognize how historical, cultural, community, and current social determinants can shape perceptions and use of tap water.

3. Identify partnerships and community-centered approaches that support drinking water utilization and confidence.

Bios:

Isabelle Stitt-Fredericks (they/them) is the Senior Program Manager of Water at Virginia Health Catalyst, where they lead initiatives focused on water equity and access to community water fluoridation. They analyze and synthesize data to inform advocacy, support public health campaigns, and collaborate with stakeholders to protect and expand access to safe, trusted, fluoridated drinking water. With a background in public health and social services, they’re committed to advancing health equity through evidence-based, community-centered strategies.