I. Overview
World Oral Health Day (WOHD) is observed each year on March 20 to raise global awareness about the importance of oral hygiene to promote preventive measures. The campaign is led by the FDI World Dental Federation in collaboration with dental associations and public-health partners worldwide. Healthy teeth and gums are vital for overall wellbeing, not just for appearance or comfort.
II. Significance of the Theme
The three year theme focuses the role that good oral health plays in overall wellbeing – from childhood through older age. It builds on the three-year campaign launched by FDI for 2024-26 under the unified banner “A HAPPY MOUTH IS…”.
III. What Is Oral Health?
Oral health refers to the overall health and proper functioning of the mouth, teeth, gums, and related structures. It is a crucial component of general health, as the mouth is the gateway to the body and can affect nutrition, communication, and overall well-being.
IV. Quick Facts about Oral Health
- Oral diseases affect 3.7 billion people, with untreated dental caries being the most prevalent condition
- The date March 20 is symbolic – “Children should have 20 baby teeth, and Adults should aim for 20 natural teeth at the end of life.
- An estimated 2.3 billion people are affected by tooth decay in permanent teeth
- 350 million people globally suffer from complete tooth loss
- Nearly 380,000 people are diagnosed with oral cancer each year.
V. A Brief History of WOHD
2007: First launched by FDI under the name “World Oral Health Day”.
2013: March 20 was officially designated as WOHD for the first time.
2024: FDI’s three-year theme “A Happy Mouth is…” was launched to simplify the message of oral health and link it to overall wellbeing.
2025: The focus was on theme “A Happy Mouth is a Happy Mind” which shows significant connection between oral health and mental well-being.
2026: Theme to be formally announced.
VI. How to Observe WOHD?
- Schedule or promote dental check-ups, especially for children and older adults.
- Share educational materials on social media or in schools about oral hygiene (brushing, flossing, sugar control).
- Partner with public-health or dental professionals to hold free screenings, community dental events or advocacy drives.
- Encourage workplaces or communities to adopt oral-health friendly policies (e.g., sugar-reduction, fluoride use).
- Use the campaign theme to emphasise that “a happy mouth” contributes to a confident, healthy life.
- Participate in awareness-raising events using FDI toolkits and resources on the official site.
References:
- https://www.fdiworlddental.org/fdi-unveils-its-three-year-happy-mouth-world-oral-health-day-campaign-advocating-oral-health
- https://www.worldoralhealthday.org/
- https://www.awarenessdays.com/awareness-days-calendar/world-oral-health-day/
- https://www.afro.who.int/regional-director/speeches-messages/world-oral-health-day-2025
- https://www.nationaldaycalendar.com/international/world-oral-health-day-march-20
