World Oral Health Day is observed globally on March 20 every year with the primary aim of creating awareness about the importance of oral health. The day is celebrated to promote good oral hygiene habits, encourage people to take care of their teeth, and educate them on how to prevent dental problems.
Each year, World Oral Health Day is given a specific theme. The theme for 2023 is “Be Proud of Your Mouth”. It was chosen for three years as part of a campaign launched by the World Dental Federation (FDI) in 2021. The last two World Oral Health Days also had the same theme.
The idea to celebrate World Oral Health Day was first proposed in 2007 and the day was first celebrated on September 12 that year. It is the birth date of Dr Charles Godon, the founder of FDI. The campaign got activated in 2013 and the date for the celebration of World Oral Health Day was changed to March 20.