Today the Diverse Dental Society (DDS) released the following statement on the conflict in Ukraine:

"As healthcare providers and members of the Diverse Dental Society (DDS) we stand alongside many other medical and dental organizations, across the United States and the World. We wish to provide a voice for those that are in harm's way, due to the conflict in Ukraine and other parts of the globe.

We sympathize with medical and dental colleagues in Ukraine that are saving lives and providing the best care they can, under dire circumstances. We also join with the World Dental Federation (FDI) to express our solidarity and concerns. We call for the international principle of medical neutrality and human rights to be upheld and respected.

We agree that medical facilities and health workers must not become military targets. Protection of healthcare workers, including dentists and dental teams must be ensured by all parties involved in this conflict.

We also encourage everyone to provide any type of assistance that you can, to support the refugees that have fled the war zone, and to ensure that everyone and in particular women, children, and the elderly, receive the basic necessities of food, water and safe shelter in the countries receiving them."

The DDS is a nonprofit organization focused on the pursuit of equity in oral health. The organization works to amplify and expand the public awareness of the importance of oral health and of improving oral health inequities in marginalized populations. For more information visit www.diversedentalsociety.org