The IFDH Mission
The International Federation of Dental Hygienists is an international non-profit association uniting national organizations of Dental Hygienists, Dental Therapists, Oral Therapists and Oral Health Therapists.
By fostering leadership and collaboration, IFDH is the principal advocate for the oral hygiene profession globally and promotes excellence in oral health, education, research and practice.
About IFDH
The International Federation of Dental Hygienists was officially formed on June 28, 1986 in Oslo, Norway. The forerunner of the IFDH, The International Liaison Committee on Dental Hygiene, was established in 1973, by some European countries (including the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden and the UK), the USA, Canada and Japan.
The IFDH is an international non-governmental organization, free from any political, racial, or religious ties. It is incorporated and registered in the United States as a 501(c6) non-profit organization. It unites dental hygiene associations from around the world in their common cause of promoting dental health.
IFDH UPDATES
International Symposium On Dental Hygiene, 2026
July 9-11, 2026; Milan, Italy
Hotel Info: Website NOW OPEN!
WHITE PAPER #4:
Aging & Oral Care
SURVEY #11 RESULTS: Interdental Cleaning
IFDH CONTACT eNews
IFDH President Report
IFDH/ADHA Joint Statement on Qualified Dental Hygiene Providers
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OR, go to our list of countries.
New Tools to Help You February 28, 2023
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🌍✨ Social Responsibility starts with YOU!
Meet Cathryn Carboon - her project won 🏆 First Place in the IFDH Social Responsibility Program 2024! Proof that passion + creativity = real community impact.
💡 Got an idea to support aging populations in YOUR community?
👉 This is YOUR chance to shine: submit your project and be the next one to inspire! 💙
🔗 For more information on how to initiate a Social Responsibility project or how to submit one, log on to www.ifdh.org
#IFDH #socialresponsibility #dentalhygienists #DentalTherapists #oralhealththerapists #globaloralhealth
Intertwined Paths: Exploring the Link Between Oral Diseases and Eating Disorders. A Comprehensive Narrative Review
Eating disorders (EDs) are psychiatric conditions with profound impacts on physical health, emotional well-being, and quality of life. They are associated with reduced employment participation and increased healthcare costs, representing a significant public health concern.
A dedicated section of this review addresses the role of dental professionals, proposing individualised care pathways and the use of clinical indices such as the Basic Erosive Wear Examination (BEWE) and Schiff Air Index, alongside emerging tools like tele dentistry. The findings advocate for a multidisciplinary approach, incorporating nutritional support, psychological therapy, and targeted dental treatment, which is crucial for developing comprehensive care plans. Such collaboration enhances the effectiveness of interventions, addressing both the physiological and psychological dimensions of EDs to improve patient outcomes.
www.cambridge.org/core/services/aop-cambridge-core/content/view/4E0565FF1EA5166F588CA2CA2E1683A2/...
This White Paper discusses the oral health of the aging population and offers recommendations for future action highlighting the role of the Dental Hygienist. Dental Therapists, Oral Therapists and Oral Health Therapists can also benefit from the information provided.
We want to say a special thank you to Haleon for their support!
Click on the link to read more:
ifdh.org/programs/white-paper-series/
#upward #IFDH #Haleon #oralhealth
🎉 The official ISDH 2026 website IS NOW LIVE!
From 9–11 July 2026, the International Symposium on Dental Hygiene (ISDH) - the signature event of the International Federation of Dental Hygienists (IFDH) - will take place in Milan, and registrations are now open!
🌐 Visit isdh2026.com to explore the first details and secure your spot at this unique event, presented by IFDH and hosted by AIDI.
Why attend?
Because ISDH is more than just a congress: it’s global connection, cutting-edge science, sharing, and inspiration for all oral health professionals.
📅 Key dates to remember:
📍 Registrations open 15 September
📍Abstract submission opens 15 September
9–11 July 2026: See you in Milan!
🦷✨ Don’t miss the chance to be part of the international dental hygiene community.
THE FUTURE OF ORAL HEALTH AWAITS YOU IN MILAN!
#ISDH2026 # AIDI Associazione Igienisti Dentali Italiani #IFDH #upward #dentalhygienists #DentalTherapists #OralHealth #ifdh
🌍✨ The 2025 IFDH Global Oral Health Summit ✨🌍
One World, One Smile: Oral Health Upward – By All, For All
Join us virtually on Saturday, November 8, 2025 at 10:00 AM ET for global conversations with WHO experts, academics, and oral health leaders.
Topics include:
🔹 Reducing Inequities
🔹 Patient-Centered Care
🔹 Interprofessional Collaboration
🔹 Prevention & the Future Workforce
Together, we’re moving oral health UPWARD for everyone! 💪🦷
📌 Free Registration: ifdh.org/global-oral-health-summit-2025/
#globaloralhealthsummit #ifdh #upward
The 2025 Virtual HoD Meeting of IFDH was held on September 6. It is always inspiring to have our wonderful colleagues come together for the future of dental hygiene💪
A heartfelt thank you to all delegates around the world for attending.
#IFDH #upward
The interrelationship between periodontal disease and systemic health
Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory disease and has been linked to various systemic conditions. The chronic inflammation associated with periodontal disease could affect systemic health, while systemic conditions may also impact periodontal disease progression and severity.
Understanding the interactions between periodontal disease and systemic conditions could guide integrated healthcare strategies, emphasising periodontal care to improve systemic health outcomes. Further research is needed to clarify causal relationships and therapeutic benefits.
The interrelationship between periodontal disease and systemic health - British Dental Journal
www.nature.com
Background Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory disease and has been linked to various systemic conditions. The chronic inflammation associated with periodontal disease could affect systemic ...
✨️Exciting Opportunity!
📚Are you a Dental Hygienist who is interested in research?
💻Are you undertaking a course of study at an undergraduate level, or a Master's, or PhD programme?
✔️Then this is for you!
🗺The IFDH has a Research Grant Program which you can make an application to receive financial support for your research!
💰This initiative is kindly supported by 'Dentsply Sirona Preventive' and 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.
💙Go to www.ifdh.org and look for the tab 'IFDH Research Grant Program' for further information.
*Celebrating Innovation & Looking Ahead!
We're proud to introduce the 2024 Innovation Award Winners:
🏆 Developed Innovation - Judy Carroll, United States 🏆 Innovation in Development - Andrea Butera, Italy
🔔 Stay tuned for an update on 2025 submission date
🌐 ifdh.org/programs/innovation-awards/
#InnovationAwards #2024Winners #IFDH #upwards #OralHealth #Haleon
The International Federation of Dental Hygienists (IFDH) #ISDH2026 Scientific Committee met earlier this week - and the energy was incredible!
A heartfelt thank you to IFDH President Jill Rethman, along with Antonella Abbinante, Chicca Scagnetto, Maria Teresa Agneta, Cynthia C. Amyot, Wanda Fedora, Gianna Maria Nardi, Kyung-hee Kang, Silvia Bresciano, Consolata Pejrone, and Dagmar Else Slot 👏
This remarkable team is shaping a Symposium program you simply won’t want to miss. Just 10 months to go! 💪See you all in Milan✨
#ISDH2026 #IFDH #dentalhygiene #dentalhygienist #OralHealthTherapists #DentalTherapists #OralHealth #ScientificCommittee #GlobalCollaboration #upward #AIDI
REVIEW ARTICLE Open Access
The Effect of Cetylpyridinium Chloride Compared to Chlorhexidine Mouthwash on Scores of Plaque and Gingivitis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses
The aim of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC) and chlorhexidine (CHX) mouthwashes (MW) on plaque and gingivitis scores for patients with gingivitis, in brushing as well as non-brushing situations.
There is moderate certainty for a small statistically significant favourable effect of CHX-MW over CPC-MW for plaque control in non-brushing situations, but no difference between them for plaque and gingivitis prevention in brushing situations.
First published: 18 June 2025 doi.org/10.1111/idh.12916
This paper was prepared as a part of the obligation of the first author Windhorst to fulfil the requirements of the University of Amsterdam master's program in Evidence Based Practice in Health Care.
Funding: This study was sponsored in part by an unrestricted educational grant by HALEON for the project ‘CHX mouthwash a 360 degree Clinical View’ to ACTA. The company had no say in the design of this review, nor did they influence the reporting and publishing of the findings. They have approved this manuscript. This research received no other specific grant from any funding agency in the public, commercial or not-for-profit sectors. The work for this paper was funded by the regular academic appointments of van der Sluijs, Joosstens, and Slot at the Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam (ACTA).
onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/idh.12916
doi.org
Aim To evaluate the effectiveness of cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC) and chlorhexidine (CHX) mouthwashes (MW) on plaque and gingivitis scores for patients with gingivitis, in brushing as well as non-.....
REVIEW ARTICLE Open Access
The Effectiveness of Power Versus Manual Toothbrushes on Plaque Removal and Gingival Health in Children—A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
The objective of this systematic review was to assess the efficacy of self-brushing using a single-head power toothbrush(PTB) in comparison to a single-head manual toothbrush(MTB) in terms of plaque removal and reduction of gingivitis in children.
There is moderate evidence that in children a PTB offers a small advantage in plaque removal over an MTB. This evidence primarily pertains to PTBs with an OR mode of action.
Funding: The work for this paper is funded by a regular academic appointment of the authors at the Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam (ACTA) and in part through an unrestricted educational grant from Procter & Gamble Worldwide Clinical Investigations—Oral Care
onlinelibrary.wiley.com
Objective The objective of this systematic review was to assess the efficacy of self-brushing using a single-head power toothbrush(PTB) in comparison to a single-head manual toothbrush(MTB) in terms.....
Floss-based vaccination targets the gingival sulcus for mucosal and systemic immunization (Needle-free flu vaccine delivered by dental floss shows promise — in mice)
In a study published July 22 in Nature Biomedical Engineering, researchers showed that vaccine-laced floss can deliver therapeutics through the junctional epithelium, a thin, porous tissue where the gums attach to the teeth, also known as the base of the gum pocket.
The floss, coated with gold nanoparticles carrying various vaccine components, including proteins, inactivated virus, immunogenic peptides, and messenger RNA, was used to immunize mice by flossing along their gumlines.
“Floss-based immunization induced strong and sustained immune activation across multiple organs, robust systemic and mucosal antibody responses, and durable protection against lethal influenza infection, independent of age, food and liquid consumption,” the authors wrote.
www.nature.com
Floss-based vaccination exploits the leaky junctional epithelium of the gingival sulcus to deliver different types of vaccine, inducing robust mucosal and systemic immunity and providing protection ag...
A systematic review and meta-analysis on early-childhood-caries global data
The present study systematically reviewed and provided a meta-analysis on early childhood caries (ECC) global prevalence and its association with socioeconomic indicators, both geographical and regarding unemployment rate, national income as well as income inequalities.
Within the limitations of this study (lack of certainty about the results as many countries are not represented and lack of uniformity in prevalence and experience data represented), results from 49 different countries reported a wide range of ECC prevalence. These reports indicated persisting high worldwide distribution of the disease. Both ECC prevalence and experience were associated with geographical areas and GNI.
bmcoralhealth.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12903-024-04605-y?fbclid=IwY2xjawLjdDtleHRuA2Fl...
A systematic review and meta-analysis on early-childhood-caries global data - BMC Oral Health
bmcoralhealth.biomedcentral.com
Objectives The present study systematically reviewed and provided a meta-analysis on early childhood caries (ECC) global prevalence and its association with socioeconomic indicators, both geographical...
Let’s make healthy smiles last a lifetime! 🦷💙
Our elderly community deserves more than care - they deserve our commitment to protecting their oral health and quality of life.
Join the IFDH Social Responsibility Program. You can create and lead impactful projects that deliver dental hygiene services, education, and compassion to older adults worldwide - and your project could be recognized with an IFDH Award at the 2026 ISDH in Milan.
📢 Now is the time: Already have a project improving oral health for seniors? Please share it with us!
💡 Have an idea? Turn it into action. Together, we can build healthier futures for our seniors.
For more details, go to the IFDH website: www.ifdh.org
#IFDH #upward #socialresponsibility #dentalhygienist #isdh2026 #DentalTherapists #oralhealth #oralhealththerapist #oralcare
⏰️ Tick tock, tick tock!
The International Symposium of Dental Hygiene is now just 11 months away.
Have you booked your annual leave and blocked the time in your work diary so you can attend? 🤔
Why not plan a few extra days so you can explore the fabulous city of Milan and perhaps even more of our host country Italy 🇮🇹
Keep a close watch on our pages for further information as we share it! 🩵🧡💙
#IFDH #ISDH #Milan2026 #dentalhygienist #dentaltherapist #oralhealththerapist #oraltherapist #learntogether #friendship
Asarum sieboldii, a Potential Ethnomedicinal Herb in Dentistry and Oral Health
Asarum sieboldii, a species of wild ginger native to East Asia, has long been recognised as an important herb in Asian traditional medicine. It has been applied in the treatment of toothache, cough, asthma, and sinusitis. A. sieboldii has gained global interest because it offers solutions to multiple health concerns. The plant is renowned for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antimicrobial, antifungal, and antioxidant properties. Its roots exhibit a wide range of biological and pharmacological effects.
With these therapeutic benefits, A. sieboldii presents a promising natural alternative or a complementary option to conventional dental treatments, capable of addressing a wide range of oral health conditions. The findings from this review could serve as a solid foundation for future research, supporting the development of high-quality, safe, and effective A. sieboldii–based products in dentistry and oral health.
www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0020653925001054?dgcid=raven_sd_via_email
The International Federation of Dental Hygienists is comprised of many hard working oral healthcare professionals who all contribute to the work of the Federation as volunteers.
Let us introduce you to the Social Media Committee; Anri, Maria, Sharon, Jiyoung, and Miranda.
If there is anything you think we should be talking about, do please get in touch and let us know!
We'd love it if you could help us grow our audience and our connections by liking our posts and following our pages, and then we can give you a follow back in return.
Let's spread the arms of Federation Friendship even further around the world! 🗺 🦷
#IFDH #SocialMediaCommittee #dentalhygienist #dentaltherapist #oraltherapist #oralhealththerapist #friendship #upward
Exciting Opportunity for Dental Hygiene Researchers! 🦷
The IFDH Research Grant Program is open for submissions! This program supports innovative research that advances the dental hygiene profession and improves oral health outcomes worldwide.
💡 Do you have a research idea that could make a difference?
💰 Apply now for funding support!
🗓️ Deadline for submissions: 15 October 2025
🔗 For more information and to apply, visit: ifdh.org/programs/research-grant-program/
#ifdhresearchgrant #dentalhygieneresearch #OralHealthInnovation #IFDH #upward
Announcement: IFDH Featured in European Journal of Dental Education
We're thrilled to share that the International Federation of Dental Hygienists (IFDH) was part of a recently published article in the European Journal of Dental Education, highlighting the importance of interprofessional education (IPE) and collaboration in oral healthcare.
This publication underscores IFDH’s ongoing commitment to working hand-in-hand with our colleagues across the healthcare spectrum. By actively participating in this collaborative effort, IFDH continues to champion integrated, patient-centered care and elevate the role of dental hygienists in global health conversations.
The article explores how IPE enhances communication, teamwork, and clinical outcomes—especially in dentistry, where the connection between oral and overall health is undeniable. It also provides a roadmap for implementing effective IPE curricula that prepare future practitioners for collaborative practice.
Read the article:
onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/eje.70014
AI-Driven Dental Caries Management Strategies: From Clinical Practice to Professional Education and Public Self Care
AI-powered tools can also be used to train dental students through simulations and virtual case studies, allowing them to practice and refine their clinical skills in a risk-free environment. Additionally, AI tracks brushing patterns and provides feedback to improve oral hygiene practices of the patients and the general population, thereby improving their understanding and compliance. This capability of AI can inform future research and the development of new strategies for dental caries management and control.
Dental caries is one of the most prevalent chronic diseases among both children and adults, despite being largely preventable. This condition has significant negative impacts on human health and imposes a substantial economic burden
www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0020653925001169?dgcid=raven_sd_via_email
✅️ July 28 is World Hepatitis Day, designated by the WHO to raise awareness of viral hepatitis and its global impact.
Over 300 million people live with hepatitis worldwide—many unaware of their infection. Without treatment, hepatitis B and C can lead to serious liver disease and even cancer.
As dental hygienists and therapists, we play a critical role in prevention and awareness through strict infection control, patient education, and recognising oral signs of systemic illness.
Let’s use this opportunity to promote awareness and support early detection in all the communities we serve.
#worldhepatitisday
#hepatitisawareness #oralhealth #dentalhygienist #dentaltherapist #oralhealththerapist #infectioncontrol #ifdh #upward
The 27th July is World Head and Neck Cancer Day created by the International Federation of Head and Neck Oncology Societies.
The Mouth Cancer Foundation and other Head and Neck Cancer charities globally use this day to raise awareness about head and neck cancer and everyone affected by it. Universally there are over 500,000 new cases each year.
The Mouth Cancer Foundation aims to raise awareness by ensuring that the public know the signs and symptoms of mouth cancer as early detection is key!
Why not share this post on your own page to help raise awareness of the simple self check we can all do?
#WorldHeadAndNeckCancerDay #selfcheck #mouthcancer #dentalhygienist #dentaltherapist #oraltherapist #oralhealththerapist #IFDH #WHNCD
REVIEW ARTICLE Open Access 18 June 2025
The Effect of Cetylpyridinium Chloride Compared to Chlorhexidine Mouthwash on Scores of Plaque and Gingivitis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses
The aim was to evaluate the effectiveness of cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC) and chlorhexidine (CHX) mouthwashes (MW) on plaque and gingivitis scores for patients with gingivitis, in brushing as well as non-brushing situations.
There is moderate certainty for a small statistically significant favourable effect of CHX-MW over CPC-MW for plaque control in non-brushing situations, but no difference between them for plaque and gingivitis prevention in brushing situations.
This paper was prepared as a part of the obligation of the first author Windhorst to fulfil the requirements of the University of Amsterdam master's program in Evidence Based Practice in Health Care. Funding: This study was sponsored in part by an unrestricted educational grant by HALEON for the project ‘CHX mouthwash a 360 degree Clinical View’ to ACTA. The company had no say in the design of this review, nor did they influence the reporting and publishing of the findings
onlinelibrary.wiley.com
Aim To evaluate the effectiveness of cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC) and chlorhexidine (CHX) mouthwashes (MW) on plaque and gingivitis scores for patients with gingivitis, in brushing as well as non-.....
📊 Survey Results Are In! 🦷
We’re excited to share the findings from IFDH Survey #11, where oral health professionals from around the world voiced their views!
This survey focused on Interdental Cleaning, and your responses are helping shape global conversations in our profession.
📥 Read the full results here: ifdh.org/ifdh-interdental-cleaning-survey-results-for-survey-11/
We would like to extend out gratitude to P&G for their support of this program
#IFDH #SurveyResults #OralHealth #IFDHVoice #upwards #CrestOralBPro
#dentalhygienist #dentaltherapist #oralhealththerapist #oraltherapist
Research Open access Published: 07 June 2025
Clinical and immunopathological assessment of the oral mucosa in coeliac disease: a pilot study
Coeliac disease (CD) is a lifelong immune-mediated systemic disease that develops in genetically predisposed subjects who show intolerance to gluten proteins. Intestinal wall inflammation with villi atrophy results in malabsorption of nutrients and leads to several gastrointestinal and systemic symptoms. High serum levels of anti-endomysial and anti-tissue transglutaminase autoantibodies can be revealed in patients with CD. The aim of the study was to evaluate the presence of IgA, IgG, IgM, and C3 complement deposits in the oral mucosa and its condition in CD patients.
bmcoralhealth.biomedcentral.com
Background Coeliac disease (CD) is a lifelong immune-mediated systemic disease that develops in genetically predisposed subjects who show intolerance to gluten proteins. Intestinal wall inflammation w...
📢 The countdown is on!
It is now just 1 year to go until we welcome you all to the next International Symposium of Dental Hygiene in Milan, Italy! 🇮🇹
Get the date in your diary and look out for further details coming soon 😊
Ciao! 📢
#IFDH #internationalsymposiumofdentalhygiene #dentalhygienist #dentaltherapist #oralhealththerapist #oraltherapist #conference #prevention #Milan2026 #AIDI
Systematic Review Open access Published: 08 June 2025
Association of tooth brushing behavior with risks of major chronic health outcomes: a scoping review
Oral hygiene behavior has been increasingly recognized as a potential contributor to chronic disease prevention. This scoping review aimed to synthesize existing evidence on the associations between tooth brushing behavior (as a proxy for oral hygiene) and major chronic health outcomes, including cardiovascular events (e.g., myocardial infarction, atrial fibrillation, heart failure), stroke (ischemic, hemorrhagic, and subarachnoid), hypertension (HTN), metabolic syndrome (MetS), and chronic kidney disease (CKD).
bmcoralhealth.biomedcentral.com
Background Oral hygiene behavior has been increasingly recognized as a potential contributor to chronic disease prevention. This scoping review aimed to synthesize existing evidence on the association...
Assessment of Oral Health Literacy and Influencing Factors: Retrospective Analysis of Patients Treated by Dental Students ORIGINAL ARTICLE Open Access
To prevent and manage oral health problems, patients must have an optimal level of oral health literacy. Patients gain this knowledge by communicating with dentists and other oral health professionals.
To assess oral health literacy among patients undergoing treatment, a retrospective analysis was completed by evaluating the Oral Health Literacy Profile (OHLP), which assesses oral health behavior and knowledge, of adult patients treated by fourth- and fifth-year dental students. Statistical analyses and linear regression modelling were then conducted, according to the study.
onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/eje.13122
Research Open access Published: 04 June 2025
Assessment of eating disorder inclusion in the oral health curriculum
Healthcare providers must be aware of the signs and symptoms of eating disorders and be confident in their detection and referral skills. Eating disorders influence both mental and physical well-being, additionally contributing to effects in cognitive processing. All eating disorders are associated with psychosocial problems that reach far beyond food intake.
Assessment of eating disorder inclusion in the oral health curriculum - BMC Oral Health
bmcoralhealth.biomedcentral.com
This study sought to inquire about the curricular content of the U.S. dental doctorate of dental surgery (DDS), doctorate of dental medicine (DMD) and dental hygiene (DH) programs regarding eating dis...
Linking periodontitis and Alzheimer’s disease: systemic inflammation as a shared mechanism
Periodontitis is a multifactorial disease that leads to the progressive destruction of the tooth’s supporting apparatus in the presence of bacterial plaque, the primary etiological agent; as responsible for systemic inflammation, it can activate the host’s immune response. Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a persistent neurodegenerative disorder characterized by a progressive cognitive decline in which inflammation plays a significant pathogenic role. This narrative review examines the most recent scientific evidence on the already established association between periodontal disease and Alzheimer’s disease.
www.academia.edu/3064-9765/2/2/10.20935/AcadMolBioGen7734
The IFDH Research Grant Program* is now open for applications! 🌍✨
If you’ve recently graduated and have a passion for research in oral health, this is your chance to shine.
📅 Deadline: 15 September 2025
📍 Open to all recent dental hygiene graduates worldwide!
Apply now 👉 ifdh.org/programs/research-grant-program/
#IFDH #DentalHygiene #ResearchGrant #OralHealth #NewGradOpportunity #CallForProposals #upwards
Association between herpes simplex virus type 1 and the risk of Alzheimer’s disease: a retrospective case–control study
A growing body of evidence points to a role for herpesviruses in the development of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and a reduced risk of AD among patients receiving antiherpetic medications. We investigated the association between herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and AD using real-world data (RWD) from USA.
STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS OF THIS STUDY
A matched case–control study was conducted using large administrative claims data from the USA.
This study highlights the clinical value of HSV-1 infection in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease.
Asymptomatic HSV-1 infection is difficult to capture in a real-world setting.
bmjopen.bmj.com/content/15/5/e093946
📢 Have you seen the latest IFDH Contact eNews?
Why not grab a cup of your favourite hot drink and settle down to see what is new from the Federation ☕️
You can follow the link or check out the IFDH website for all this and more! 💙🧡🩵
#IFDH #upward #dentalhygienist #dentaltherapist #oralhealththerapist #oraltherapist #news #prevention
ifdh.org/update-enews/
Please follow the link or head over to our website to read our most recent White Paper, kindly supported by Haleon 🦷
Authored by our past president, Wanda Fedora, this work explores the 'Cost Effectiveness of Prevention' 🦷
We know that the key to reducing oral disease is found in prevention.
This paper explores the current financial impact of oral disease and its cost to individuals and society. It will demonstrate the cost effectiveness of prevention and the essential role of primary oral healthcare providers in achieving a reduction in oral disease globally 🦷
How could you bring this to life in your daily practice? 💙🧡🩵
ifdh.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/IFDHWhitePaperMARCH25Final.pdf
#IFDH #upward #prevention #dentalhygienist #dentaltherapist #oraltherapist #oralhealththerapist #Haleon
A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Association Between Periodontitis and Age-Related Macular Degeneration: Potential for Personalized Approach
A new systematic review and meta-analysis found a significant association between periodontitis and age-related macular degeneration (AMD), suggesting periodontal disease may be an underrecognized modifiable risk factor for the most common cause of irreversible vision loss among the elderly.
Periodontitis is associated with AMD. Unlike other important but unmodifiable risk factors such as genetic predisposition and high age, periodontitis is a risk factor that can be treated and potentially eliminated, thus allowing for a personalized approach for risk elimination in AMD. Attention should be given to the dental health of patients at risk of AMD. However, more studies are warranted to understand the impact of eliminating periodontitis in patients with periodontitis and how that modulates the risk of AMD.
The study builds on prior meta-analyses and provides an updated synthesis of the evidence. The findings reinforce the need for prospective, well-controlled studies that can clarify the relationship and assess the impact of periodontal treatment on AMD risk.
www.mdpi.com
Background/Objectives: Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease that leads to systemic low-grade inflammation. Systemic low-grade inflammation has been found in patients with age-related macula...
🌍 Global Collaboration for Better Oral Health 🦷
We’re proud to announce that IFDH is now an official member of the International Association for Dental Research (IADR)! 🦷🔬
As the global voice for dental hygienists, our membership in IADR strengthens our commitment to advancing oral health through scientific research, education, and collaboration.
🤝 This partnership expands our reach, fosters innovation, and gives dental hygienists a stronger voice in the global research community.
#IFDH #IADR #upward #Dentalhygienists #Dentaltherapists #Dentalresearch
🌍 World Environment Day 🌿
Healthy smiles = a healthier planet!
Prevention by dental hygienists, oral health therapists and dental therapists, means fewer treatments, less waste, and more sustainable care.
The International Federation of Dental Hygienists (IFDH) released a new White Paper highlighting sustainability in oral health and the vital role of dental hygienists in creating a healthier, greener future 💚🦷.
Let’s protect our smiles and Earth.
To read the IFDH White Paper, authored by Dr. Rachael England go to :
ifdh.org/programs/white-paper-series/
#WorldEnvironmentDay #GreenSmile #IFDH #SustainableOralHealth #WhitePaper #upward #DentalHygienists #DentalTherapists #PreventionMatters
Debulking influenza and herpes simplex virus strains by a wide-spectrum anti-viral protein formulated in clinical grade chewing gum
A novel clinical-grade chewing gum could help reduce viral loads of influenza and herpes simplex virus strains. In a laboratory-based study published in Molecular Therapy, researchers examined the efficacy of a novel clinical-grade chewing gum formulated with FRIL — a natural viral tap protein — in neutralizing several flu and herpes simplex virus strains.
The chewing gum left no aerobic bacteria, yeasts or molds after the bioburden test. The gum also was capable of trapping both HSV-1 and HSV-2 strains. Through a mastication simulation for 15 minutes, the chewing gum released greater than 50% of the FRIL protein. The researchers determined that a 2,000-milligram chewing gum tablet could be safe and effective at neutralizing the H1N1 and H3N2 flu strains and HSV-1 and HSV-2 strains.
www.cell.com
Daniell and colleagues report clinical-grade bean chewing-gum containing the viral trap protein (FRIL) is stable and fully functional up to 790 days, when stored at ambient temperature. Each gum tabl...
📍Deadline Approaching fast...📍
Kind reminder to take just a few minutes to respond to the IFDH 2025 Survey #11: Interdental Cleaning.
🔹️Please complete by June 6th🔹️
Given the importance of interdental plaque removal to good oral health, the IFDH is fielding its eleventh survey to better understand global practices and beliefs around interdental cleaning.
Click on the link here to participate in the survey.
project.tolunastart.com/s/w5WXf4a
✔️We thank P&G for their support of this program.
✔️NO personal information is collected.
✔️By taking the survey, respondents give consent to have their anonymous responses used for these purposes.
#ifdh #oralhealth #upward #CrestOralBPro
🌟YOUR PROJECT COULD BE THE NEXT AWARDED🌟
The 2025-2026 Social Responsibility Program, focusing this term on Oral Health for the Elderly, is officially underway 🏃♀️🏃➡️!
If you have a relevant project you’d like to submit or if you're curious how to initiate and create one, check out the video attached and log onto
ifdh.org/programs/social-responsibility-overview/
Deadline for submissions: February 1st 2026.
#socialResponsibility #ifdh #oralhealth #upward #dentalhygienists #oralhealth_therapists #dental_therapists #IFDH
🛑 Tobacco doesn’t just damage lungs - it starts with the mouth.
Let’s bring oral health to the center of the conversation on World No Tobacco Day.👇
🦷 Dental hygienists, oral health therapists, and dental therapists are often the first to detect the visible and invisible damage caused by tobacco use, including:
Gum disease
Tooth loss
Mucosal lesions
Oral cancer
Delayed healing after treatment
Discoloration and staining of teeth
These oral health professionals are on the frontline of prevention, early detection, and patient education, uniquely positioned to influence behavior and improve long-term health outcomes.
✨ Protect your smile. Protect your health. Protect your life. Every breath you take matters.
💬 For more information on smoking cessation and how tobacco impacts your oral and overall health, speak with your dental hygienist, oral health therapist, or dental therapist.
They’re more than clinical providers - they are key partners in prevention and public health.
#WorldNoTobaccoDay #OralHealthMatters #QuitTobacco #ProtectYourSmile #DentalHygienist #OralHealthTherapist #DentalTherapist #OralCancerAwareness #TobaccoFreeFutures #HealthPromotion #IFDH
Population-Based Disease Odds for E-Cigarettes and Dual Use versus Cigarettes
E-cigarettes are promoted as less harmful than cigarettes. There has not been a direct comparison of health effects of e-cigarettes or dual use (concurrently using e-cigarettes and cigarettes) with those of cigarettes in the general population.
Conclusions
There is a need to reassess the assumption that e-cigarette use provides substantial harm reduction across all cigarette-caused diseases, particularly accounting for dual use.
Population-Based Disease Odds for E-Cigarettes and Dual Use versus Cigarettes
evidence.nejm.org
E-cigarettes are promoted as less harmful than cigarettes. There has not been a direct comparison of health effects of e-cigarettes or dual use (concurrently using e-cigarettes and cigarettes) with...
🌍 World Nutrition Day 2025
🦷 Eat Smart, Smile Bright!
What’s on your plate can shape your smile.
The food choices we make every day influence more than our overall health—they play a key role in keeping our teeth and gums healthy, too.
This World Nutrition Day, let’s highlight how nourishing meals contribute to lifelong oral wellness and brighter, healthier smiles around the world.
#ifdh #dentalhygienists #upward
#worldnutritionday
🌟Reminder: Take 5-10 minutes to respond to the🌟
IFDH 2025 Survey #11: Interdental Cleaning
Given the importance of interdental plaque removal to good oral health, the IFDH is fielding its eleventh survey to better understand global practices and beliefs around interdental cleaning.
Click on the link here to participate in the survey.
project.tolunastart.com/s/w5WXf4a
✨Deadline: June 6th, 2025
We thank P&G for their support of this program.
NO personal information is collected.
By taking the survey, respondents give consent to have their anonymous responses used for these purposes.
#ifdh #oralhealth #upward #CrestOralBPro
🌟Take 5-10 minutes to respond to the🌟
IFDH 2025 Survey #11: Interdental Cleaning
Given the importance of interdental plaque removal to good oral health, the IFDH is fielding its eleventh survey to better understand global practices and beliefs around interdental cleaning.
Click on the link here to participate in the survey.
project.tolunastart.com/s/w5WXf4a
✨Deadline: June 6th, 2025
We thank P&G for their support of this program.
NO personal information is collected.
By taking the survey, respondents give consent to have their anonymous responses used for these purposes.
#ifdh #oralhealth #upward #CrestOralBPro
*IFDH Board Meeting in Vienna - Purposeful, Productive & United!*🌐🌟
Last week, the IFDH Board gathered in beautiful Vienna for our annual in-person meeting, held this year alongside the EuroPerio conference.
Our leadership team -
✨️ Jill Rethman (President)
✨️ Fouzieh Eliassy (President-Elect)
✨️ Sharon Friedman-Yaniv (Vice-President)
✨️ Miranda Steeples (Treasurer)
✨️ Carmen Lanoway (Secretary)
✨️ Peter Anas (ED)
- came together for meaningful discussions, strategic planning, and important decisions, all with a shared commitment to advancing the profession of dental hygiene, dental therapists, oral health therapists worldwide.
A special highlight was a warm and collegial joint meeting with our counterparts from the EDHF (European Dental Hygienists Federation) Board - Gitana Rederienea, Ellen Bol, Anne-Claire Van-Der Lans and Veronica Montebello - valuable opportunity to connect, strengthen ties, & exchange ideas on our shared vision ❣️
Together, we’re building bridges, shaping policy, and creating a lasting impact on global oral health.
#ifdh #edhf #upward #dentalhygienists #oral_health_therapists #dentaltherapists #globaloralhealth
The non-cariogenic effects of aspartame: A systematic review and meta-analysis
A study compared the effects of aspartame versus other sweeteners on teeth.
In the systematic review and meta-analysis, published in the Journal of Dentistry, investigators used the PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus and CENTRAL databases to identify 13 studies focused on assessing the cariogenicity of aspartame and sucrose across clinical trials, animal models and dental samples.
www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0300571225001605
😄 Happy International Day of Families! 😄
A healthy smile is a family affair! Practicing good oral hygiene isn’t just about preventing cavities - it’s about building lifelong habits that support overall well-being. 🦷
From the youngest to the oldest, brushing twice a day, flossing, and regular dental visits help every family member in all the beautiful ways families are formed, stay healthy, confident, and smiling together.
Let’s make oral care a family tradition!
#ifdh #happysmiles #family