IFDH eNews: March 2026
PROGRAMS
Our 6th White Paper Published
Behavioral Change
Behavioral change is a topic that has significant importance in oral healthcare. While clinicians can provide appropriate and effective therapies, patients must follow through on recommendations in order to achieve successful outcomes. Those recommendations include patient-centered professional care and self-administered care. As part of the IFDH White Paper series, this White Paper examines challenges, approaches, and practical strategies to implementing behavioral change. Expanding the roles of dental hygienists, dental therapists, oral therapists, and oral health therapists in communities will help promote healthy habits and behaviors, thereby improving oral and overall health. See all of our White Papers.
Research Grant Winners Announced
The IFDH Research grants program promotes experience in the research process and dissemination of findings contributing to the dental hygiene body of knowledge. Through the generosity of DentsplySirona, the program provides grants for students enrolled in dental hygiene graduate programs conducting thesis research. The 2025 winners were recently announced (see more details):
Jessica Fribert, Dalarna University, Sweden
“Oral Health Related Quality of Life among Older Adults: Do Dental Care Utilization over time make a difference?”
Farzana Sarkisova, Auckland University of Technology, New Zealand
“Oral irrigators and interdental brushes in periodontal maintenance: A pilot randomized clinical trial.”
New Project Underway
IFDH has completed a detailed survey of 31 member countries, reviewing the preventive practices currently in use in the dental hygiene profession globally. The results are being reviewed and will be compiled into a professionally designed document that describes each country’s preventive practices and common themes. In addition, the IFDH will develop recommendations to enhance preventive oral care and the dental hygienist's role in providing these services.
4 Sets of IFDH Awards to be Presented at ISDH
World Dental Hygienist Awards
The IFDH Awards Committee has been busy reviewing applications for the 2026 World Dental Hygienist Awards program. The regional winners will be awarded during a special 1-hour presentation on Friday July 10th.
Innovation Awards
The IFDH Innovation Awards program, sponsored by Haleon, recognizes innovative Dental Hygienists with a focus on technology and treatment. The awards will be presented during the Closing Ceremonies on Saturday, July 11th.
Social Responsibility Awards
Applicants for the Social Responsibility Awards, sponsored by DentsplySirona, have been reviewed by the Social Responsibility Committee and the winners will present their programs during a workshop on Friday, July 10th.
Impact Awards
The IFDH Impact Awards, sponsored by Colgate, is offered annually and open to any Full Association Member country of the IFDH. The awards are based on is "the association’s most impactful program that has promoted the improved oral health of your country's citizens during the current calendar year." The awards will be presented during the Closing Ceremonies on Saturday, July 11th.
Have You Joined IFDH as an Individual Member?
Any Dental Hygienist, Dental Therapist, Oral Therapist, or Oral Health Therapist who is a member in good standing of a national association that is an IFDH association member, OR is a graduate of an accredited 2-year educational program in their field, may apply. Click here for our Benefits and an Application.
You’re a Past Member and want to Re-Join?