World Oral Health Day 2026 launch announced at FDIWDC25

In the context of rapid medical advancements and growing attention to chronic disease prevention, oral health is increasingly viewed not as a narrowly specialized dental issue, but as a crucial component of overall human well-being. It is within this framework that World Oral Health Day (WOHD) has evolved over recent years into one of the most extensive and influential international initiatives in public health. The launch of the WOHD 2026 campaign, officially announced during the FDI World Dental Congress 2025 in Shanghai, symbolizes both the culmination of a three-year conceptual journey and a reflection on the global dialogue regarding the role of oral health in human life.

Global platform for prevention and education

Since its establishment in 2007, World Oral Health Day has consistently expanded the scope and substance of its activities, evolving into the largest international platform for raising awareness about oral health. Annually, on March 20th, this initiative unites professionals, civil society organizations, educational institutions, and the broader population by offering evidence-based knowledge, practical tools, and motivation for the prevention and control of oral diseases. The relevance of this mission is supported by statistics: according to international organization estimates, various forms of oral diseases affect nearly 3.5 billion people worldwide, making them one of the most prevalent groups of non-communicable diseases.

The three-year concept “A Happy Mouth is…” as a communication tool

The contemporary WOHD campaign, initiated by the International Dental Federation (FDI), was conceived as a three-year communications project aimed at simplifying and humanizing messages about oral health. The concept was built around the slogan “A Happy Mouth is…” (“Счастливый рот — это…”), which was expanded each year with a new thematic emphasis. In 2024, the focus was on the connection between oral and physical health, highlighting how the condition of the mouth directly impacts the functioning of the entire body. In 2025, the focus shifted toward mental well-being, demonstrating how the health of teeth and gums is linked to self-confidence, emotional stability, and quality of social life.

The final stage of the campaign, scheduled for 2026, aims to unite these approaches and present a more holistic vision. The new slogan, to be officially unveiled in Shanghai, emphasizes that oral health supports all aspects of a fulfilling life—from enjoying food and effective communication to productive work, social engagement, and dignified, confident aging.

Shanghai as a point of global consolidation

Choosing the FDI World Dental Congress 2025 in Shanghai as the venue to launch the WOHD 2026 campaign holds both symbolic and strategic significance. The congress, held from September 9 to 12, traditionally brings together leading specialists in dentistry, public health, and medical policy from around the world. The event featured the official presentation of the campaign materials, discussions on its public health objectives, as well as practical sessions focused on implementing the initiative at national and local levels.

A special place in the program was given to presentations by experts and community leaders who have already achieved significant success in mobilizing both the public and professional communities. Additionally, the event honored the winners of the WOHD 2025 awards, highlighting the continuity and sustainability of the movement.

Expert perspective and social dimension

According to Dr. Anna Lella, Chair of the WOHD Task Team, the concluding year of the campaign has a special mission—”to deliver the message to every person.” She emphasizes that oral health should not be perceived as an isolated medical topic, as it directly impacts achievements in education, professional activities, interpersonal relationships, and quality of life in old age. This approach reflects the contemporary understanding of health as a comprehensive social and biopsychological phenomenon.

Scale of impact and evolution of communication

The results of recent years demonstrate the unprecedented reach of the WOHD campaign. In the last year alone, events and initiatives were held in 218 countries, the campaign’s online resources garnered over 400,000 page views, and video content attracted approximately 40 million views. The campaign’s mascot—a beaver named Tooti—played a significant role in popularizing the ideas, becoming a recognizable symbol of oral health for people of all ages. The use of creative formats and the adaptation of materials into multiple languages have helped shift the focus of discussion from purely clinical rhetoric to a more inclusive and motivating dialogue.

Conclusion

The final stage of World Oral Health Day 2026 represents not only the culmination of a three-year awareness campaign but also a significant milestone in shaping the global understanding of the role of oral health in human life. Launching the initiative at FDIWDC25 underscores its international status and potential for furthering interdisciplinary collaboration. Recognizing oral health as a fundamental human right and an integral foundation for quality of life opens new avenues for prevention, education, and social responsibility, creating conditions for a healthier future for current and future generations.