World Oral Health Day: Shining a Light on the Global Burden of Oral Disease

Every year on March 20, millions around the world come together to celebrate World Oral Health Day, an initiative that empowers individuals, families, and communities to prioritize oral health as an essential part of overall wellbeing. In 2026, the global campaign theme, “A Happy Mouth is a Happy Life,” reminds us that oral health shapes our confidence, comfort, nutrition, communication, and quality of life at every age. 

But despite how fundamental oral health is, oral diseases remain among the most widespread and neglected global health challenges. World Oral Health Day exists because the burden is simply too large to ignore. 

The Global Burden of Oral Diseases
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Oral diseases affect 3.5 billion people worldwide, making them some of the most common noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). Many of these conditions are preventable, yet they continue to create barriers to wellbeing due to limited access, socioeconomic inequality, and insufficient public health prioritization.  

• Untreated dental caries (cavities) affect 2.5 billion people, making it the most common health condition globally. 
• Severe periodontal disease impacts roughly 1 billion adults, contributing to tooth loss, inflammation, and systemic effects. 
• Complete tooth loss (edentulism) affects 350 million people, especially in older populations. 
• The economic burden of oral diseases exceeds $380 billion annually, representing around 4.8% of global direct health expenditures. 
• Three out of four individuals with oral diseases live in middle-income countries, highlighting persistent inequities.  

Why Oral Health Day Matters: World Oral Health Day calls on people and communities to work together to reduce the global burden of oral disease. The campaign encourages prevention, promotes healthy habits, and empowers individuals with tools to care for their oral health.  
Its purpose is vital: to equip people with the knowledge, tools, and confidence to secure good oral health throughout life. 

Here are simple ways you can celebrate and make a difference: 

• Recommit to preventive habits: Brush twice daily, clean between teeth, and limit sugary snacks.
• Schedule a dental visit for preventive care and early detection. 
• Share educational messages about the importance of oral health with friends, family, and social networks. 
• Participate in community events, such as screenings or awareness activities. 
• Support organizations that improve access to dental care in underserved communities. 

Read More:  
FDI World Dental Federation. (2026). World Oral Health Day.
World Health Organization. (2019). Oral health data portal.