Fdi new definition of oral health

A fascinating topic!

FDI (Fédération Dentaire Internationale) is the World Dental Federation, and they have recently introduced a new definition of oral health. Here's what it is:

FDI's New Definition of Oral Health (2020):

"Oral health is a state of being free from oral diseases, including tooth decay, gum disease, and oral cancer, and having a healthy, functional, and aesthetically pleasing mouth, with a positive impact on overall health and well-being."

This definition emphasizes the importance of oral health beyond just the absence of disease. It highlights the significance of oral health in overall well-being, including its impact on physical and mental health, quality of life, and social interactions.

Key Components:

  1. Freedom from oral diseases: The absence of conditions like tooth decay, gum disease, and oral cancer.
  2. Healthy, functional, and aesthetically pleasing mouth: A mouth that is free from pain, discomfort, and functional limitations, and is also pleasing to the individual.
  3. Positive impact on overall health and well-being: Oral health is recognized as an essential component of overall health, influencing physical and mental well-being, quality of life, and social interactions.

Implications:

This new definition of oral health has significant implications for:

  1. Dental education: Dental professionals will need to focus on preventive care, early detection, and management of oral diseases, as well as promoting oral health as an essential aspect of overall well-being.
  2. Public health policies: Governments and health organizations will need to develop policies and programs that prioritize oral health, recognizing its impact on overall health and well-being.
  3. Research and development: Researchers will need to investigate the relationships between oral health and overall health, as well as develop new treatments and technologies to promote oral health and prevent oral diseases.

Overall, FDI's new definition of oral health emphasizes the importance of oral health as a vital component of overall well-being, and highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to promoting oral health and preventing oral diseases.