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World Oral Health Day

An awareness observance on March 20 promoting global awareness of oral health, the importance of hygiene, and prevention of oral diseases to achieve healthier mouths and overall well-being.

Saturday

March 2027

Last updated February 26, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEMarch 20

OBSERVED INInternationally

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYPublic Health

ORIGIN

Institutional Initiative

FOUNDING ENTITY

FDI World Dental Federation

FIRST OBSERVED

2007

HOW THE HOLIDAY CAME TO BE

The FDI World Dental Federation first declared World Oral Health Day in 2007, originally celebrated on September 12 to honor FDI founder Dr. Charles Godon's birthday. The date was changed to March 20 in 2013 to avoid conflict with the FDI World Dental Congress.

Institutional Recordvia worldoralhealthday.org

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to celebrate World Oral Health Day on March 20! This annual global event was created in 2013 by the FDI World Dental Federation to raise awareness of the importance of oral health and hygiene around the world. It's a great day for people everywhere to make an effort towards bettering their dental hygiene habits, while also learning more about how they can stay healthy.

TIMELINE

World Oral Health Day Timeline

Inauguration of World Oral Health Day

The FDI World Dental Federation creates World Oral Health Day to raise global awareness about the importance of oral health and hygiene.

First Global Celebration

The first global celebration of World Oral Health Day took place, with various countries participating in awareness campaigns and events.

Theme: Smile for Life!

The first ever theme for World Oral Health Day, 'Smile for Life!', was introduced to highlight the lifelong benefits of good oral care.

Theme: It all starts here. Healthy mouth. Healthy body.

The theme emphasized the link between oral health and overall health, inspiring people to take care of their mouth to maintain well-being.

Theme: Say Ahh: Think Mouth, Think Health

FDI introduced this theme to further emphasize that oral health is integral to general health and well-being.

Theme: Say Ahh: Unite for Mouth Health

The theme signified global unity towards achieving better oral health for everyone and understanding that a healthy mouth leads to a healthy body.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate World Oral Health Day

Brush your teeth

Make sure to brush your teeth twice a day - morning and night - to keep your mouth clean and healthy!

FLOSS

Floss daily

Flossing helps prevent cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues. Make sure you floss at least once each day.

EAT

Eat healthy snacks

Snacking on fruits, vegetables, and other healthy foods can help keep your teeth in top shape.

VISIT

Visit the dentist regularly

Make sure to schedule regular visits with the dentist for checkups and cleanings to ensure good oral hygiene.

EDUCATE

Educate yourself

Take some time to learn about proper oral health care and how to keep your mouth healthy.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why World Oral Health Day is Important

Good oral health prevents costly problems down the road

Investing in preventive dental care now can save you money down the road. Regular checkups can help prevent more serious - and expensive - problems like cavities and gum disease in the future. So don't neglect your oral hygiene - it could save you some serious cash!

Good oral health helps your overall health

Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for good overall health. Research has shown that problems with the teeth and gums can lead to serious health issues such as stroke, heart disease, diabetes, and even dementia. So it's definitely worth investing in your dental care!

Good oral health improves your confidence

Having healthy teeth and a beautiful smile can go a long way in boosting your confidence. Being able to show your pearly whites without worrying about bad breath or crooked teeth will make social situations much easier. Plus, it makes photos all the better!