Episode 2 - Government Affairs and Advocacy

In this episode of NJ Word of Mouth, host Orville Morales, NJDA’s Director of Advocacy and Health Affairs, sits down with Dr. Mark Vitale, Chair of the Council on Government and Public Affairs and a long-time advocate for the dental profession. Together, they explore the vital connection between dentistry and public policy, highlighting how oral health is shaped not only in the exam room but also in the legislative arena.

Dr. Vitale shares insights from his years of leadership within NJDA, reflecting on the challenges and opportunities facing dentists today—from Medicaid access and workforce shortages to the importance of engaging lawmakers in meaningful dialogue. With his perspective, listeners gain a deeper understanding of why advocacy is essential to the future of dentistry and how every dental professional has a role to play in shaping policies that impact patients and practices alike.

This conversation sets the tone for NJ Word of Mouth: real stories, policy breakdowns, and expert perspectives at the intersection of oral health and public life.