EFP behaviour change campaign: unlocking better oral health

The EFP has launched a new phase of its impactful The journey to a healthy smile campaign. With continued support from meridol®, this initiative builds on the success of the 2024 campaign, further equipping oral health professionals with effective tools to inspire and guide patients toward sustainable oral health behaviours. This project is also relevant to dental students and university programmes, encouraging the inclusion of strategies to foster effetive change in patient behaviour for better oral health.

"Lifestyle choices significantly impact oral health," said Professor William Papaioannou, project leader for the campaign. "Oral health professionals are in a unique position to educate and motivate patients. By adopting the strategies in this campaign, we can empower individuals to take charge of their oral health and improve their overall well-being. Together, we can unlock the potential for lasting positive change."

The campaign centres around a clear and engaging infographic outlining 10 keys to unlocking patients' good oral health behaviours, providing actionable steps for dental practitioners to motivate and guide their patients effectively.

Ten keys to unlocking patients’ good oral health behaviours

1. Messenger: be a credible, empathetic, and trustworthy communicator. As a dentist, your role as a messenger is crucial in establishing effective communication.
2. Environment: create a welcoming and non-judgmental space. Actively listening to patients' concerns fosters a collaborative approach and empowers them.
3. Guidance: use defaults to nudge patients in the right direction. Recommend regular preventive measures and visits to oral health providers.
4. Emphasise: highlight the importance of gum health using visuals, demonstrations, and clear explanations. Show patients what gum problems look like and how they can progress.
5. Motivation: share educational materials, videos, or success stories to prepare patients for discussions about gum problem prevention.
6. Appeal: connect with patients emotionally by explaining the discomfort, irritation, and potential bad breath caused by gum issues, emphasizing prevention's convenience over treatment.
7. Norms: use social norms to influence behaviour. For instance, mention the prevalence of gum problems in specific age groups and the importance of healthy lifestyles.
8. Commitment: encourage patients to commit to preventive measures and treatment plans by setting specific goals and obtaining verbal or written confirmations.
9. Incentives: offer incentives like verbal praise, rewards, or information on future cost savings to motivate patients.
10. Self-esteem: appeal to patients' self-esteem by showing how maintaining good oral hygiene can boost confidence and overall well-being.

The EFP behaviour change campaign includes visually compelling infographics that break down the 10 keys into implementable steps to guide dental professionals. Multilingual video resources are also available, featuring testimonials and expert guidance to further support the campaign’s goals.

"We are proud to partner with the European Federation of Periodontology on this innovative initiative. By leveraging the power of behavioural science, we aim to inspire lifelong healthy habits in individuals, ultimately enhancing their oral health, and impacting general health and wellbeing,” said Irina Laura Chivu-Garip, Colgate-Palmolive Head of Scientific Affairs for Europe. “This collaboration underscores our commitment to advancing health literacy and aims to engage medical and dental professionals, as well as their patients, in pursuing health goals by leveraging evidence-based approaches.”

A holistic approach to oral health

Poor diet, lack of exercise, inadequate oral hygiene, stress, and insufficient sleep are lifestyle factors contributing to gum disease and overall health issues. The EFP campaign emphasises that adopting healthier habits benefits not just oral health but also general well-being. By addressing these factors holistically, oral health professionals can motivate patients to view their oral health as an integral part of their overall health journey.

Join the movement

This new phase of The journey to a healthy smile invites oral health professionals across the globe to join the movement. With effective tools, resources, and strategies designed to create real change, the campaign is a call to action to support lifestyle changes and impact patients’ lives positively.

As Papaioannou puts it: “The journey to a healthy smile is not just about oral hygiene, it’s about transforming behaviours and empowering patients to take charge of their health. Together, we can make a lasting difference. Please join the EFP in spreading the message of better oral health!”

More information 

Multilingual videos