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!
IFDH CONTACT eNews
IFDH President Report
WHITE PAPER #6:
Behavioral Change
Apply for the 2026
INNOVATION AWARDS
Social Responsibility: Submit Your Project on Aging
Working Abroad
Click for one of our member countries below
OR, go to our list of countries.
New Tools to Help You February 28, 2023
IFDH Facebook Posts
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The Association of Periodontitis With Cardiovascular Disease Parameters: A Synthesis of Systematic Reviews
What is the association of periodontal disease (PerioD) and cardiovascular diseases (CVD/CVE) as reported in existing systematic reviews (SRs)?
Conclusion
Based on data collected from existing SRs, the association between PerioD and CVD/CVE was generally observed to be of negligible to small magnitude. Additionally, the data does not confirm potential causality.
onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/idh.12885?campaign=wolearlyview
🦷 World Oral Health Day
Oral health is essential to overall health and well being
Dental hygienists, dental therapists and oral health therapists are at the forefront of prevention, education and better quality of life
Their work goes beyond care, they create lasting impact in communities worldwide
Today we celebrate their dedication and the difference they make every day
#IFDH #upward
#dentalhygienists #DentalTherapists
#oralhealththerapists
#WorldOralHealthDay
Proud moment for our Federation 🌍✨
Today, as part of World Oral Health Day, our President Jill Rethman represented the global dental hygiene community in a webinar hosted by the World Health Organization and was invited to participate in an important panel discussion.
During the discussion, she highlighted the critical role of dental hygienists, dental therapists, and oral health therapists in prevention and health promotion - far beyond the traditional clinical setting. From hospitals and long-term care facilities to outreach in remote and underserved communities, our professions are uniquely positioned to drive meaningful change and improve access to care.
This event is a powerful recognition of the impact our professions have within global healthcare systems - today and into the future.
Thank you, Jill, for your leadership and for amplifying the voice of our profession.
#DentalTherapists #dentalpublichealth #dentalhygienists #upward #worldhealthorganization #IFDH #WorldOralHealthDay
We are pleased to introduce Marisa Roncati, speaker at ISDH 2026.
🦷 Presentation focus
Her lecture, “Reframing Oral Care to Enhance Systemic Health”, will explore the critical link between oral health and healthy aging. The session will present innovative home-care devices designed to support autonomy and assisted care, alongside impactful clinical cases demonstrating effective management of periodontitis and peri-implant diseases in elderly patients.
A multidisciplinary, person-centred approach will be discussed, highlighting collaboration between dental professionals, physicians, students and caregivers. The integration of music, educational tools and evidence-based protocols will illustrate how oral care can be reframed as a key component of overall systemic health.
⏳ Early registration closes March 30.
🔗 Register on the official ISDH website:
www.isdh2026.com
📢 Don't miss your chance to attend this important webinar!
World Oral Health Day 2026
📅 Thursday, 19 March 2026
🌍 Join the World Health Organization in marking World Oral Health Day 2026.
On Thursday, 19 March 2026 (13:00–14:30 CET), WHO will host the global launch of its new guideline:
“Environmentally friendly and less invasive oral health care for preventing and managing dental caries.”
🌐 Interpretation available in English, French and Spanish
🔗 Register here: who.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_2ii3fh0kQjq3If7iTb-xhA
#WorldOralHealthDay #WOHD2026 #WOHD2026 #IFDH #dentalpublichealth
#worldhealthorganization #dentalhygienists #DentalTherapists #oralhealththerapists #oralhealthprofessionals
Distinct spatial organization governs oral mucosal immunity
Researchers have generated a detailed multi-omics atlas of the human oral mucosa, revealing that the gingiva is organized into distinct immune zones that remain structurally intact even during inflammatory disease.
Distinct spatial organization governs oral mucosal immunity - Nature Immunology
www.nature.com
Moutsopoulos, Williams and colleagues show oral mucosal barrier tissues exhibit dynamic zonal immune cell environments, including tonic inflammatory features in healthy individuals and development of ...
Prevention is not optional. It is essential. 🦷🌍
The International Federation of Dental Hygienists (IFDH) is proud to lead the White Paper Series, bringing together global expertise and evidence-based guidance to strengthen advocacy, education, and collaboration in oral health worldwide.
The series highlights the critical role of dental hygienists, dental therapists, and oral health therapists in advancing the WHO Global Strategy on Oral Health, and reinforces what our profession has always known:
Dental hygienists, dental therapists, and oral health therapists are vital members of the global healthcare team.
📖 Explore the series and discover how IFDH is helping shape the future of prevention-driven oral health care worldwide:
ifdh.org/programs/white-paper-series/
🙏 Thank you to Haleon for supporting this important initiative.
#IFDH #dentalhygienists #DentalTherapists #oralhealththerapists #Prevention #globaloralhealth #whitepapers #Haleon #upward
We are pleased to introduce Jeanie Suvan, speaker at ISDH 2026.
🦷 Presentation focus
Her lecture, “Growing Together: The Transformative Power of Co-Mentoring in the Journey of a Dental Hygienist and Periodontist”, will explore the role of co-mentoring in professional development and clinical excellence. The session will highlight how collaborative mentorship fosters mutual growth, strengthens self-leadership and enhances interdisciplinary practice.
Drawing from academic expertise and international experience, the presentation will examine how authentic professional relationships can support career progression, resilience and the advancement of dental hygiene within a global context.
⏳ Early registration closes March 30.
🔗 Register on the official ISDH website: www.isdh2026.com
#ISDH2026 #DentalHygiene #Mentorship #ProfessionalGrowth #GlobalCommunity #ifdh #dentalhygienists #dentaltherapists #oralhealththerapists
World Oral Health Day 2026
📅 Thursday, 19 March 2026
*****Save the Date and Register for the Webinar*****
🌍 Join the World Health Organization in marking World Oral Health Day 2026.
On Thursday, 19 March 2026 (13:00–14:30 CET), WHO will host the global launch of its new guideline:
“Environmentally friendly and less invasive oral health care for preventing and managing dental caries.”
This important report supports countries in strengthening oral health systems, advancing universal health coverage, and promoting more sustainable approaches to oral health care.
🌐 Interpretation available: English, French and Spanish
🔗 Register here: who.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_2ii3fh0kQjq3If7iTb-xhA
Let’s work together to accelerate the global transition toward safe, affordable and environmentally sustainable oral health care for all.
#WorldOralHealthDay #WOHD2026 #WOHD2026 #OralHealthForAll #globaloralhealth #IFDH #dentalpublichealth
#worldhealthorganization #dentalhygienists #DentalTherapists #oralhealththerapists #oralhealthprofessionals #IFDH
#PreventionFirst #globaloralhealth #OralHealthMatters
Efficacy and Safety of AirFloss Ultra With Essential Oils Versus Waxed Dental Floss as Adjunct to Toothbrushing: A Randomised Controlled Clinical Trial - Open Access
This study aims to determine the efficacy and safety of AirFloss Ultra with essential oils (AFeo) compared to waxed dental floss (DF) as an adjunct to regular manual toothbrushing.
No significant difference in efficacy was observed between the AirFloss Ultra filled with an essential oil solution and waxed dental floss when used alongside manual toothbrushing. This conclusion is based on assessments of gingival bleeding, dental plaque, and gingival abrasion scores in the lower jaw following experimentally induced gingivitis. Both products were also found to be safe for use.
onlinelibrary.wiley.com
Aim This study aims to determine the efficacy and safety of AirFloss Ultra with essential oils (AFeo) compared to waxed dental floss (DF) as an adjunct to regular manual toothbrushing. Material an...
We are pleased to introduce Filippo Graziani, speaker at ISDH 2026.
🦷 Presentation focus
His lecture, “Growing Together: The Transformative Power of Co-Mentoring in the Journey of a Dental Hygienist and Periodontist”, will explore how collaborative mentorship strengthens interdisciplinary practice and supports professional growth across careers.
Drawing from extensive academic, clinical and leadership experience in periodontology, the session will examine how co-mentoring fosters shared expertise, clinical excellence and long-term development within dental teams.
An inspiring perspective on how authentic collaboration can elevate both individual careers and the profession as a whole.
✨ Early registration is available until March 30
👉 Register via the link: www.isdh2026.com
#ifdh #upward
#DentalHygienists #Dentaltherapists
#OralHealththerapists #OralHealth
Happy International Women’s Day 🌸
Women leading the future of oral health🦷💐
Today we celebrate the women making a difference in communities around the world.
Dental hygienists, dental therapists, and oral health therapists play a vital role in prevention, education, and improving oral health for healthier lives.
IFDH proudly celebrates the women who continue to advance oral health and strengthen communities.
#ifdh #upward
#DentalHygienists #Dentaltherapists
#OralHealththerapists
#OralHealth
What happens when passionate oral health professionals from around the world come together with a shared purpose?
ISDH 2026 is more than a congress. It is a meeting point of cultures, ideas, experience and dedication to advancing dental hygiene, dental therapy, and oral health therapy globally.
One of the most moving moments of the Opening Ceremony is a long standing tradition: national flags carried proudly representatives of each member associations. It is a powerful visual reminder that while we come from different places and systems, we stand together as one professional community - learning from one another, advocating for oral health, and moving our professions forward.
✨ One global community. One shared mission.
Be part of this extraordinary moment at ISDH 2026.
Join colleagues from around the world and take part in shaping the future of dental hygiene, dental therapy, and oral health therapy.
Register now via the link: www.isdh26.com
#isdh2026 #upward #IFDH #Oralhealth
Video-Assisted Learning for Oral Health Knowledge in Children: A Pre-post Intervention Study Open Access
Tooth decay is a common childhood disease. There is growing recognition of the value of community-based, personalised, and digitally driven interventions in enhancing oral healthcare.
This video-based intervention enhanced student engagement with oral health content while providing valuable insights into the effectiveness of digital education in promoting better oral health knowledge among children.
Video-Assisted Learning for Oral Health Knowledge in Children: A Pre-post Intervention Study
www.cureus.com
Introduction Tooth decay is a common childhood disease. There is growing recognition of the value of community-based, personalised, and digitally driven interventions in enhancing oral healthcare. Met...
📢You don't want to miss this event!!! Register today to enjoy Earlybird registration: www.isdh2026.com
#isdh2026 #dentalhygiene #dentalhygienist #dentaltherapy #IFDH #Prevention #Oralhealth #IFDH #dentalpublichealth
We are pleased to introduce Marie-Laure Grandjean, speaker at ISDH 2026.
🦷 Presentation focus
Her lecture will address oral health prevention in long-term care facilities, with a focus on caries prevention and fluoridation strategies aimed at preserving natural teeth, function and quality of life in institutionalized older adults.
Through evidence-based approaches and insights from the Swiss context, the session will explore how preventive oral care strategies can be effectively implemented in institutional settings, highlighting barriers to care, access to services and the role of dental hygienists in supporting vulnerable populations.
#isdh2026 #dentalhygiene #Oralhealth #Prevention #agingpopulation #longtermcare #DentalTherapists #dentalhygienist #IFDH #oralhealthprofessionals #OralHealthMatters #AIDI
IFDH Annual In-Person Board Meeting
Chicago, USA 🌟
Last week, the IFDH Board convened in Chicago for important strategy discussions, candid conversations, and shared responsibility, all grounded in a clear commitment and hard work to advancing IFDH with focus and purpose.
Grateful to dedicated colleagues and friends who care deeply about our profession and its global future, and who continue to move it forward together:
President Jill Rethman, President-Elect Fouzieh Shaffi Eliassy, Vice-President Sharon Friedman, Treasurer Miranda Steeples (joined by conference call) Secretary Carmen Lanoway and ED Peter S. Anas 👏
#IFDH #leadership #dentalhygiene #GlobalCollaboration #isdh2026 #upward #DentalTherapists #dentalhygienist
The burden of severe periodontitis in the United States - Insights from a population-based analysis
Severe periodontitis is a leading cause of tooth loss in adults and an important public health issue in the United States. However, data on its long-term burden and future trends remain limited. The authors evaluated the burden of severe periodontitis in the United States from 1990 through 2021 and projected its trajectory through 2050.
Targeted strategies for aging populations and more equitable distribution of oral health care resources across states are essential to reduce the burden of severe periodontitis and promote oral health care equity in the United States.
The burden of severe periodontitis in the United States
jada.ada.org
Severe periodontitis is a leading cause of tooth loss in adults and an important public health issue in the United States. However, data on its long-term burden and future trends remain limited. The a...
As part of our Prevention & Treatment White Paper Series our 6th White Paper in the last 2 years, has now been published and is available on the website:
ifdh.org/programs/white-paper-series/
🌟A very special thank you to our sponsor, Haleon
#ifdh #prevention #oralhealth #upward #haleon
The Patient-Centred Interdental Cleaning Concept—Consensus Based on a Round Table - Open Access
The aim of the study was to consolidate clinical and scientific evidence and develop personalised recommendations for the optimal use of interdental devices, addressing the diverse needs of patients with varying oral health conditions based on the outcomes of an expert meeting.
Barriers to implementing interdental cleaning recommendations must be explored to provide practical solutions for the general population and dental care professionals. Strategies should include developing easily translatable educational content endorsed by professional societies to raise awareness, promoting behaviour change, tailoring care to individual needs, improving product usability, managing costs and addressing discomfort. It is also essential to align recommendations within the dental profession and prioritise interdental care in clinical practice, emphasising evidence-based guidelines and collaborative education efforts to ensure effective interdental hygiene practices are adopted.
The Patient‐Centred Interdental Cleaning Concept—Consensus Based on a Round Table
onlinelibrary.wiley.com
Aim To consolidate clinical and scientific evidence and develop personalised recommendations for the optimal use of interdental devices, addressing the diverse needs of patients with varying oral he.....
The Lunar New Year is celebrated in many parts of the world as a time of renewal, family, and hope.
As we begin this new lunar cycle, IFDH wishes you a year filled with health, prosperity, and confident smiles.
This is also a special year for our global community, as we look forward to coming together at ISDH 2026 and continuing to move upward in advancing oral health worldwide.
Happy Lunar New Year 2026🧧🍀
#IFDH #upward
#dentalhygienists #DentalTherapists
#oralhealththerapists #Oralhealth
⏰ Final Call
📣 Poster abstract submission closes February 20th, 2026.
This is your last opportunity to share your research and clinical insights at ISDH 2026.
Theme:
Oral and General Health - Prevention & Progress
If your work advances prevention and connects oral to general health, this is your stage.
👉 Submit now:
isdh2026.com/abstracts
#ISDH2026 #OralHealth #DentalHygiene #Prevention #dentalhygienist #dentaltherapist #aidi #IFDH #oralhealththerapist
🤝 Thank you to our sponsors
The International Symposium on Dental Hygiene 2026 would not be possible without the valuable support of our sponsors.
Through their collaboration, ISDH 2026 is able to foster scientific exchange, innovation and professional growth, contributing to the advancement of dental hygiene and dental therapy worldwide.
🦷 We are grateful to our partners for sharing our commitment to education, prevention and the promotion of oral and general health.
✨ Early registration is available until March 30
👉 Register on our website
isdh2026.com/registration/congress-registration/
#Oralhealth #isdh2026 #DentalProfessionals #dentalhygieneresearch #HealthySmile #IFDH
We are pleased to introduce Stefano Checchi, speaker at ISDH 2026.
🦷 Presentation focus
His lecture will explore clinical cariology, with a strong emphasis on the practical application of current knowledge on caries pathology. The session will address individual caries risk assessment, early diagnosis through advanced diagnostic tools and artificial intelligence, and the development of personalized prevention and treatment plans.
Clinical evidence and real-world experience will illustrate how scientific knowledge can be translated into daily practice, with particular attention to early intervention strategies, gradual clinical approaches and interactive tools to improve patient understanding and engagement.
www.isdh2026.com
#isdh2026 #dentalhygiene #cariesprevention #Oralhealth #dentalhygienists #DentalTherapists #IFDH #AIDI #oralhealththerapists
🚨 LAST CALL: Innovation Awards Submissions!
Don’t miss the opportunity to showcase your innovative project and be recognised for your impact.
Entries close soon – submit now before it’s too late!
🏆✨
www.ifdh.org
#InnovationAwards #oralhealth #IFDH #upward #berecognized
Community Water Fluoridation and Birth Outcomes
Original Investigation Health Policy
In a large, national cohort study, investigators found no evidence that community water fluoridation is associated with adverse birth outcomes, including birth weight, offering reassurance about the safety of this long-standing public health intervention during pregnancy.
“This cohort study found that [community water fluoridation] is not associated with infant health as measured by birth weight, contributing to ongoing evaluations of the safety of [the practice], particularly with regard to potential adverse effects during pregnancy,” stated lead study author Benjamin Krebs, PhD, of the Faculty of Business and Economics at the University of Basel in Switzerland. “Our findings contribute to the broader discussion of potential adverse effects of fluoride exposure and highlight the importance of using more rigorous empirical strategies when evaluating population-level interventions,” they concluded.
Community Water Fluoridation and Birth Outcomes
jamanetwork.com
This cohort study evaluates the association between prenatal exposure to community water fluoridation and birth weight and other birth outcomes in US counties.
🚨 Last Call: 3 Days Left! 🚨
🗓 Deadline: February 12
Dental hygienists, dental therapists, and oral health therapists from IFDH member countries and IFDH individual members:
Do you lead a project for older adults?
An individual initiative or an organizational program?
Examples:
• Community service
• Mobile clinic
• Preventive care
• Care-home programs
• Homebound patient support
Your work matters. And it deserves recognition.
🌍 The IFDH Social Responsibility Program is calling for impactful projects that promote healthy aging through oral care.
✨ Don’t wait. Submit now. Be part of global change. Vist: www.ifdh.org
#IFDH #HealthyAging #OralHealthForSeniors #dentalhygienist #dentaltherapist #oralhealthprofessionals #oralhealththerapists #oralhealththerapists #SocialResponsibility #CommunityCare #PreventionMatters #LeadershipInAction
Fostering Interprofessional Belonging: Dental hygiene students’ perceptions of a hospital rotation
The integration of interprofessional education within dental hygiene curricula as required by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) standards states that graduates must be prepared to function effectively within collaborative, team-based healthcare environments. The purpose of this study was to evaluate dental hygiene students’ perceptions of an interprofessional hospital rotation, focusing on its perceived value, sense of interprofessional belonging, and acquired knowledge.
Interprofessional hospital rotations provide significant educational value for dental hygiene students by enhancing their knowledge, fostering a sense of belonging, and increased confidence in providing patient care. These findings support the integration of hospital-based interprofessional experiences into dental hygiene curricula, aligning with CODA standards and
Fostering Interprofessional Belonging: Dental hygiene students’ perceptions of a hospital rotation
jdh.adha.org
[[youtu.be/yxIjjgFHK0c.mp4]][1] Purpose The integration of interprofessional education within dental hygiene curricula as required by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) standards st...
The periodontal pathogen Fusobacterium nucleatum is associated with disease severity in multiple sclerosis
A Hiroshima University study has found that higher levels of the periodontal bacterium Fusobacterium nucleatum in the mouth were associated with greater disability in people living with multiple sclerosis (MS), though the researchers caution the findings do not establish cause and effect.
The cross-sectional observational study, published in Scientific Reports, analyzed tongue-coating samples collected from patients treated at Hiroshima University Hospital between May and November 2023.
www.nature.com
Increasing evidence suggests that periodontitis may contribute to central nervous system disorders through chronic inflammation, but its role in multiple sclerosis (MS) remains unclear. This explorato...
🌍 World Cancer Day | Fighting Cancer Through Prevention - Starting in the Mouth
Today, on World Cancer Day, we are reminded that awareness, early detection, and prevention save lives.
Oral cancer is one of the most preventable and treatable cancers when identified early. As oral health professionals, we are often the first line of defense.
🦷 During routine care, dental hygienists, dental therapists, oral therapists, and oral health therapists can:
✔ Identify early warning signs
✔ Educate patients about risk factors (tobacco, alcohol, HPV, lifestyle)
✔ Promote regular screenings
✔ Encourage timely referrals
Prevention is not only about treatment. It is about education, access, and empowerment.
At IFDH, we believe that well-trained prevention-focused professionals are essential in the global fight against cancer.
Because there is no general health without oral health
Let’s keep raising awareness and strengthening prevention.
Let’s keep saving lives 🙏
#WorldCancerDay #IFDH #OralHealth #CancerPrevention #PreventionFirst #EarlyDetection #PublicHealth #GlobalHealth #PreventionWorks #OralCancerAwareness #HealthPromotion #DentalHygienists #DentalTherapists #OralHealthTherapists #PreventiveCare #PrimaryPrevention #UniversalHealthCoverage #HealthEquity #GlobalOralHealth
🌍 IFDH Social Responsibility Program – Submission Extended!
Good news!
Due to great interest, the submission deadline has been extended to Feb 12, 2026 🎉
If you’re working on a project (or thinking of starting one) that supports older adults and their oral health, this is your chance to get involved and make a real impact.
🦷 Who can apply?
Dental hygienists, dental therapists, and oral health therapists from IFDH member countries
Both individual and association projects are welcome.
✨ What’s in it for you?
* Opportunity to be featured at ISDH Milan 2026
* Recognition for your work
* A chance to inspire the global oral health community
📅 New deadline: Feb 12, 2026
🔗 Learn more & submit: www.ifdh.org
Periodontal Disease and Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association
Since the publication of the 2012 American Heart Association scientific statement on the association between periodontal disease and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, the body of literature on this topic has grown substantially. Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death globally, and understanding contributors and potential targets to decrease this risk is paramount. This updated scientific statement synthesizes new evidence concerning an association between periodontal disease and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, including findings from Mendelian randomization studies, interventions targeting periodontal disease, and studies exploring systemic markers, such as inflammatory cytokines and vascular measures.
www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000001390
We are pleased to introduce Janet Kinney, speaker at ISDH 2026.
Dental hygienist, researcher and Professor Emerita of Dentistry at the University of Michigan, Janet Kinney brings a strong academic and scientific background to the symposium, with extensive experience in education and clinical research.
🦷 Presentation focus
Her lecture will explore the role of salivary diagnostics in periodontal disease progression, alongside evidence-based approaches to peri-implantitis management and innovative strategies to support oral health through prevention and clinical research.
#isdh2026 #dentalhygienist
#DentalTherapists #dentalhygiene #IFDH #oralhealththerapists #Oralhealth #Prevention #upward #clinicalresearch
🌍 Oral Health is officially recognized in the global NCD agenda.
The United Nations has officially recognized oral health in the global agenda for Noncommunicable Diseases (NCDs).
IFDH welcomes the UN General Assembly’s adoption of the Political Declaration on the Prevention and Control of NCDs - with an important milestone: oral diseases are explicitly recognized as a major global health and economic burden.
📌 3.7 billion people worldwide are affected by oral diseases
📌 Most oral diseases are preventable
📌 Prevention must be delivered across the life course, through primary health care and universal health coverage (UHC)
This is a major milestone message, that there is no health without oral health, and a clear reminder that prevention works - when the right workforce is included.
✅ Dental hygienists
✅ Dental therapists
✅ Oral therapists
✅ Oral health therapists
#IFDH #OralHealth #NCDs #WHO #UN #oralhealththerapists #dentalhygienist #dentaltherapist #DentalProfessionals #dentalpublichealth #Prevention #PrimaryHealthCare #UHC #upwards #GlobalHealth #PublicHealth
📣 Poster submission deadline extended!
The deadline for poster submission for ISDH 2026 has been extended.
🗓 New deadline: February 20th
Presenting a poster is a valuable opportunity to share research, exchange ideas and engage with the international dental hygiene community.
✨ Posters should align with the symposium theme
“Oral and General Health – Prevention & Progress.”
👉 Find all the additional information on the dedicated page:
isdh2026.com/abstracts/call-for-abstracts/
#OralHealth #ISDH2026 #DentalProfessionals #DentalHygieneResearch #HealthySmile #dentalhygienists #dentaltherapist #IFDH #upward #oralhealththerapists #dentalsymposium
Open Access
Efficacy and Safety of AirFloss Ultra With Essential Oils Versus Waxed Dental Floss as Adjunct to Toothbrushing: A Randomised Controlled Clinical Trial
This study aims to determine the efficacy and safety of AirFloss Ultra with essential oils (AFeo) compared to waxed dental floss (DF) as an adjunct to regular manual toothbrushing.
No significant difference in efficacy was observed between the AirFloss Ultra filled with an essential oil solution and waxed dental floss when used alongside manual toothbrushing. This conclusion is based on assessments of gingival bleeding, dental plaque, and gingival abrasion scores in the lower jaw following experimentally induced gingivitis. Both products were also found to be safe for use.
onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/idh.70010?campaign=woletoc
IFDH Innovation Awards ✨💡
Be recognized for your innovative ideas in oral health!
The IFDH Innovation Awards celebrate creativity and impact across our profession.
If you’re developing something new or have already brought an innovation to life, this is your opportunity to shine.
✅ ️Submission deadline: February 13, 2026
#ifdh #upward
#DentalHygienists #Dentaltherapists
#OralHealththerapists
#OralHealth #Haleon
⏰ Deadline approaching!
Don’t miss out on the IFDH Social Responsibility Awards 🌍
Submit your project and get recognised for making a difference in your community.
👉 Submissions closing soon — apply now!
www.ifdh.org
#ifdh #upward #socialresponsibility #oralhealth
REVIEW ARTICLE - Open Access
The Effect of Diabetes on Outcomes of Non-Surgical Periodontal Therapy: A Systematic Review with a Meta-Analysis and Trial Sequential Analysis
The aim of this systematic review was to critically assess and synthesise the current scientific evidence of the potential impact of diabetes mellitus (DM) on treatment outcomes in periodontitis patients following Non-Surgical Periodontal Therapy (NSPT), incorporating recent advancements in meta-analytical techniques.
Based on the evidence profile, it can be stated with moderate certainty that the difference in treatment outcomes of periodontitis patients following NSPT between the DM and NDM groups is insignificant.
onlinelibrary.wiley.com
Objective The aim of this systematic review was to critically assess and synthesise the current scientific evidence of the potential impact of diabetes mellitus (DM) on treatment outcomes in periodo.....
⏰ Final Call for Abstract Submissions – ISDH 2026
Abstract submissions are closing soon! Be part of ISDH 2026 and showcase your work among global leaders in oral health. Share your research, innovations, and insights with an international audience shaping the future of oral health.
Don’t miss out!
For more info: isdh2026.com/abstracts/call-for-abstracts/
#isdh2026 #ifdh #upward #innovate #oralhealth
New study links oral health to brain aneurysm risk
Diseases of tooth-supporting tissues, such as severe gingivitis and periodontitis, appear to increase the risk of developing and rupturing a cerebral artery aneurysm, according to a recent doctoral study from Finland based on 13 years of follow-up data.
Key Highlights
Gum disease, not decay, is linked to aneurysms: Gingivitis and severe periodontitis were associated with a higher prevalence of cerebral aneurysms and increased rupture risk over 13 years.
Oral bacteria may play a role: Immune responses to periodontal pathogens, including gingivalis, correlated with aneurysm occurrence and rupture, suggesting systemic involvement.
Oral health may influence brain health: Findings underscore the potential importance of periodontal prevention and care for patients with unruptured aneurysms.
erepo.uef.fi/server/api/core/bitstreams/7d88eca9-6a9d-4064-a0b5-e30cef83e62e/content
A 20-year FAERS analysis of hypersensitivity reports to chlorhexidine and povidone-iodine (2004-2024)
The number of dental patients experiencing hypersensitivity, including chronic hives, to topical antiseptics appears to be increasing, according to a study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: Global.
Reports of povidone-iodine hypersensitivity appear to be lower, but efforts to improve patient safety may still be needed, the authors wrote.
“This study highlights a substantial rise in CHX-related hypersensitivity reports, emphasizing the need for heightened clinical vigilance,” wrote the authors, led by Dr. Ishitha Jagadish of the University of Arizona-Phoenix (J Allergy Clin Immun, November 20, 2025).
The study examined reports involving chlorhexidine (CHX) and povidone-iodine from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS), a publicly available database that tracks the post-marketing safety of approved drugs. The database includes adverse event reports submitted by healthcare professionals, consumers, and manufacturers, they wrote.
www.jaci-global.org
Topical antiseptics, chlorhexidine (CHX) and povidone-iodine, are widely used to prevent surgical-site infections and are potential culprits for perioperative hypersensitivity.
IFDH End of Year Newsletter is Out! ✨🦷
Catch up on the latest global oral health updates, events, and opportunities in our December IFDH News edition! 🌍💙
👉 Read it here: ifdh.org/enews/ifdh-enews-december-2025.html
Or visit: www.ifdh.org
#IFDH #upward #ifdhnews #OralHealthForAll
🌍 World Dental Hygienist Awards 2026
In collaboration with IFDH, the Sunstar Foundation World Dental Hygienist Awards 2026 are still open for applications.
This is an opportunity to highlight outstanding contributions to dental hygiene and oral health and to gain global recognition at ISDH Milan 2026.
👉 Apply now or support a colleague with a nomination
🔗 ifdh.org/world-dental-hygienist-awards/
#IFDH #upward #sunstar
#dentalhygienists #DentalTherapists
#oralhealththerapists
#Oralhealth
#worlddentalhygienistawards #isdh2026
As the year wraps up, it is time to celebrate the moments, the people, and the connections that made it special.
We are grateful to share this journey with you.
Warm holiday wishes from IFDH President Jill Rethman and the entire IFDH Board of Directors:
Fouzieh Shaffi Eliassy , Sharon Friedman , Miranda Steeples , Carmen Lanoway , together with our Executive Director and IFDH team, Peter S. Anas
Wishing you a happy holiday season and a joyful start to the New Year 🎉🎇
From all of us at IFDH
#IFDH #upward #dentalhygienists #oralhealththerapists #DentalTherapists #dentalpublichealth #isdh2026 #oralhealthcareproffesionals #oraltherapists #happyholidays #HappyNewYear #oralhealthcareleadersjip #oralhealthprofessionals #dentalhygiene
🌍 After 28 years, ISDH is coming back to Italy!
From July 9–11, 2026, Milan will host the IFDH International Symposium on Dental Hygiene, a unique opportunity to connect with colleagues from around the world, share experiences, and explore the latest scientific evidence.
At the heart of the Symposium is the theme:
“Oral and General Health: Prevention & Progress” addressed through four essential life-stage topics:
👶 Childhood (Pregnancy–11 years)
🧑🦱 Adolescence (12–18 years)
🧑 Adulthood (19–65 years)
👵👴Old Age
✨ Why Should You Attend?
✔ Cutting-edge scientific updates
✔ Global networking opportunities
✔ A chance to present your research or clinical experience
Be a key player! Submit your abstract now:
📅 Abstract deadline: January 7, 2026
💡 Early bird registration until March 30, 2026
🔗 www.isdh2026.com
Together, we shape the future of dental hygiene
#ifdh #dentalhygienists #dentaltherapists #oralhealththerapists #upward #Aidi #isdh2026 #oralhealth #Prevention #dentalpublichealth
🌍 Get your impact recognized globally
The Sunstar Foundation World Dental Hygienist Awards 2026, in collaboration with IFDH, celebrate excellence, leadership, and commitment within the dental hygiene profession.
This award recognizes dental hygienists whose work contributes to improved oral health in their communities and beyond.
👉 Apply now or nominate a colleague
🔗 ifdh.org/world-dental-hygienist-awards/
Don’t miss the opportunity to be recognized globally.
#ifdh #upward
#DentalHygienists #Dentaltherapists
#OralHealththerapists
#OralHealth
#WorldDentalHygienistAwards