[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 73 (Tuesday, June 9, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1073]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 STATEMENT ON THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF DENTAL 
                                RESEARCH

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. RON PACKARD

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 9, 1998

  Mr. PACKARD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 50th 
anniversary of the National Institute of Dental Research. The National 
Institute of Dental Research (NIDR) was established on June 24, 1948 by 
the National Dental Research Act. I am pleased to have this opportunity 
to recognize all NIDR researchers and scientists for 50 years of hard 
work and dedication.
  The NIDR has had a leadership role in improving and promoting dental 
health. As a former dentist myself, I know first-hand how important 
this research is for every American. The NIDR supports biomedical and 
behavioral research in its own laboratories and in public, private, and 
academic research centers across the nation. It also promotes oral 
health worldwide through its sponsorship of international meetings and 
information changes.
  The NIDR has dedicated 50 years to researching tooth loss and other 
related diseases and disorders, including AIDS, osteoporosis, oral 
cancer, arthritis, and diabetes. Through its research on preventive and 
diagnostic strategies, the NIDR has contributed to a dramatic 
improvement in the oral health of the American people. This research 
saves Americans over four billion dollars in dental expenses every 
year!
  Mr. Speaker, the National Institute of Dental Research has been 
instrumental in the nationwide decline of oral and dental disease. I 
wholeheartedly support the NIDR and appreciate its many contributions 
to dental health over the past 50 years.

                          ____________________