World Oral Health Day (WOHD) is an annual global awareness campaign dedicated to promoting good oral hygiene and the importance of maintaining oral health. Celebrated on 20th March every year, this day serves as a reminder that oral health is crucial for overall well-being. Organized by the FDI World Dental Federation, World Oral Health Day encourages individuals, communities, and policymakers to take action in preventing oral diseases and promoting healthy dental habits.
HISTORY OF WORLD ORAL HEALTH DAY
World Oral Health Day was first declared in 2007 by the FDI World Dental Federation to highlight the growing concerns around oral health and its impact on general health. Initially, the celebration date was 12th September, coinciding with the birthday of Dr. Charles Godon, the founder of FDI. However, in 2013, the date was shifted to 20th March for greater global engagement and impact. The new date was chosen to symbolize oral health numerically:
- Children should have 20 baby teeth.
- Adults should have 32 natural teeth.
- A healthy adult should have a 0 score in the Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth (DMFT) index.
SIGNIFICANCE OF WORLD ORAL HEALTH DAY
Oral diseases, such as cavities, gum disease, and oral cancer, affect billions of people worldwide. Poor oral hygiene can lead to severe health complications, including diabetes, heart disease, and infections. World Oral Health Day raises awareness about the importance of preventive care, regular dental checkups, and good oral hygiene practices. Governments and health organizations use this occasion to implement public health policies and educate communities about the significance of oral health.
Themes Of World Oral Health Day
Every year, World Oral Health Day follows a unique theme to emphasize different aspects of oral hygiene. Some past themes include:
- 2025 – A Happy Mouth is… A Happy Body
- 2024 – A Happy Mouth is… A Happy Body
- 2023 – Be Proud of Your Mouth (Encouraging self-care and oral hygiene)
- 2022 – Be Proud of Your Mouth for Your Happiness and Well-being
- 2021 – Be Proud of Your Mouth (Three-year campaign starting in 2021)
- 2020 – Unite for Mouth Health
These themes aim to engage communities, healthcare professionals, and policymakers to prioritize oral health.
CONCLUSION
World Oral Health Day serves as a global platform to spread awareness about dental hygiene, disease prevention, and overall well-being. Practicing good oral care can significantly impact general health, making it essential to celebrate this day by adopting better dental habits and encouraging others to do the same.
