World Oral Health Day, observed on March 20th every year, is an international event that aims to raise awareness about the importance of good oral hygiene and its impact on overall health. Led by the FDI World Dental Federation, this day serves as a platform to educate people globally about maintaining healthy teeth and gums, preventing oral diseases, and promoting oral health as a fundamental human right.
Theme and objectives
Each year, World Oral Health Day is centered around a specific theme to focus on key aspects of oral health. Themes in the past have included "Say Ahh: Act on Mouth Health," "Live Mouth Smart," and "Healthy Mouth, Healthy Body." These themes highlight the interconnectedness of oral health with general health and well-being.
The theme this year is "A happy mouth is a happy body".
The objectives of World Oral Health Day include:
Educating the Public: By spreading awareness through various channels, including media, educational campaigns, and community events, World Oral Health Day educates people about the importance of oral hygienepractices.
Promoting Prevention: Emphasizing preventive measures such as regular brushing, flossing, dental check-ups, and avoiding tobacco use helps prevent common oral health issues like cavities, gum disease, and oral cancers.
Empowering Individuals: Encouraging individuals to take control of their oral health by adopting healthy habits and seeking professional dental care when needed empowers them to maintain healthy smiles throughout their lives.
Advocating for Equity: World Oral Health Day advocates for equitable access to oral health services, addressing disparities in dental care availability and affordability worldwide.
Key messages and activities
On World Oral Health Day, organizations, dental professionals, governments, and communities collaborate to spread key messages and engage in various activities, including:
Awareness Campaigns: Launching media campaigns, social media initiatives, and public events to educate people about oral health practices, common dental problems, and the importance of regular dental check-ups.
School Programs: Conducting educational programs in schools to teach children about proper oral hygiene habits, healthy eating for good oral health, and the importance of visiting the dentist regularly.
Community Outreach: Organizing free dental check-ups, screenings, and oral health camps in communities, particularly in underserved areas, to provide access to dental care and raise awareness.
Professional Training: Offering training sessions and workshops for dental professionals to enhance their knowledge and skills in preventive care, treatment modalities, and patient education.
Policy Advocacy: Advocating for policies that support oral health promotion, such as fluoridation of water, tobacco control measures, and integrating oral health into primary healthcare systems.
