IFDH eNews: January 2025
PROGRAMS
5 More White Papers in Process
Canada, USA, Seoul & Online
Having completed the first White Paper on Oral Health During Pregnancy & the Role of Dental Hygienists, IFDH has an additional 5 White Papers in progress. With Haleon sponsorship, IFDH is providing evidence-based guidance and information to its 33 national association country members. The goal of the series is to provide a global perspective on the multi-faceted impact of dental hygienists.
Click here to see the list of White Papers and authors.
Our 10th Survey Completed!
PREVENTIVE CARE
Canada, USA, Seoul & Online
The IFDH recently completed its 10th survey - helping to better understand global Dental Hygienists’ practices around Preventive Care. We thank P&G for their support of this program.
Click here for a summary of the results.
Research Grants New Deadline
APPLICATION DEADLINE: September 15th, 2025
The IFDH has research grants for dental hygiene students available, so please check the website for details. The purpose of this program is to promote experience in the research process and dissemination of findings contributing to the dental hygiene body of knowledge.
Click for more info.
World Dental Hygienist Awards Now in Process!
The World Dental Hygienist Awards has been open for applications for its 2026 edition. Sunstar Foundation and IFDH continue the revamped version of the World Dental Hygienist Awards.
The World Dental Hygienist Awards program is the integration of two regional Awards of Distinction:
- Europe: July 15th, 2025 (will open April 15th)
- North America: March 31st, 2025 (already open)
- Rest of the World: December 31st, 2025 (will open April 15th)
The winners will be awarded at the 2026 International Symposium in Dental Hygiene in Milan Italy, July 9-11, 2026.
Click for more info.
Social Responsibility 2024-2026
"A healthy smile for life - oral health for better aging"
As science and medicine advance, life expectancy and quality of life continue into adulthood. Oral health in elderly people is crucial for maintaining overall well-being and quality of life.
Our theme for 2025-26 is: "A healthy smile for life - oral health for better aging." Healthy smiles generate higher self-esteem and confidence. Helping educate the elderly about oral health will maintain overall well-being and quality of life.
Your project could be the next IFDH Award-winning initiative. Learn more.
The IFDH invites dental hygienists, dental therapists, oral health therapists, and their organizations to initiate or share social responsibility projects focused on improving oral health for elderly populations. Your project could be the next IFDH Award-winning initiative, demonstrating the impact of collective efforts in promoting oral health equity and well-being for aging communities.
As people age, they may face increased risks of dental issues such as cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss, which can affect their ability to eat, speak, and maintain social interactions. Good oral hygiene practices can prevent these problems and reduce the risk of more serious health conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, and dementia, which have been linked to poor oral health. Additionally, maintaining healthy teeth and gums helps preserve self-esteem. It supports the ability to enjoy a varied and nutritious diet, ultimately enhancing the independence and life satisfaction of elderly people.