The American Association of Endodontists (AAE) has issued a formal letter to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH), expressing strong opposition to the NIH’s recent decision to cap indirect costs for research grants at fifteen percent. The policy, which impacts all new and existing NIH grant recipients, poses a serious threat to vital research efforts, particularly within the field of oral health.
In a letter addressed to HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Acting NIH Director Matthew Memoli, AAE President Dr. Natasha M. Flake emphasized the critical role of NIH-funded research in advancing dental and oral health care. The NIH’s National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR) has been a cornerstone of innovation since its founding in 1948, supporting groundbreaking work in areas such as oral-systemic health connections, oral cancer detection and treatment, advanced dental materials, congenital anomalies, and pain management.
“The NIH’s decision to arbitrarily cap indirect costs will have serious consequences for oral health research,” said Dr. Flake. “These funds are essential for sustaining research infrastructure, including support staff, facilities, and operational expenses. Without them, universities and institutions will struggle to maintain critical research programs, ultimately jeopardizing patient care and scientific progress.”
AAE stands in full support of the federal injunction against these cuts and urges the NIH to rescind its policy immediately. The association warns that without adequate funding, researchers may be forced to abandon vital studies, hindering the development of new treatments and advancements in oral health care.
“We strongly urge the NIH to reconsider this harmful policy, which not only undermines the intent of congressional research funding but also threatens the well-being of patients,” Dr. Flake added.
About the AAE
The AAE is the leading global association of endodontists, focused on advancing the science and art of endodontics and promoting the highest standards of care. With more than 8,000 members, the AAE supports its community through professional development, advocacy, and public education on the benefits of saving natural teeth.
For more information about AAE and its initiatives, visit aae.org.
