AAOM integrates medicine and dentistry to promote optimal health. To foster excellence in education, research, and patient care in the field of oral medicine. To promote the study and dissemination of knowledge regarding the medical aspects of dentistry while serving the best interests of the public. To promote the highest standards of care in the diagnosis and treatment of oral conditions that are not responsive to conventional dental, oral or maxillofacial surgical procedures. To provide an avenue of referral for dental practitioners who have patients with severe, life-threatening medical disorders or complex diagnostic problems involving the oral and maxillofacial region that require ongoing non-surgical management. To improve the quality of life of patients with medically-related oral disease. To foster increased understanding and cooperation between the medical and dental professions. To obtain the American Dental Association's recognition of Oral Medicine as a specialty.