“Oral health throughout life” campaign launched by EFP

Oral health is essential to overall health, wellbeing, and quality of life, and it requires attention at every stage of life. To raise awareness about the importance of lifelong oral care, the EFP and Dentaid have launched the Oral health throughout life campaign. This new initiative offers practical guidance on how to protect gums and teeth from childhood to older age. 

Oral health issues begin early. As soon as a child’s first tooth appears, parents are encouraged to take their child to the dentist for preventive advice on diet, brushing, and oral hygiene. Early decay is widespread: about 50% of children experience tooth decay as toddlers, which can lead to orthodontic problems if baby teeth are lost too soon. 

Teenagers also face specific risks. Hormonal changes during puberty can increase gum sensitivity, making adolescents more prone to gingivitis if oral hygiene is neglected. Combined with the tendency to skip brushing or consume sugary snacks and drinks, this makes adolescence a critical time for reinforcing healthy habits. In Europe, 77% of adolescents are affected by caries, with 73% showing signs of gum inflammation such as gingival bleeding. 

“Oral health is related to 57 systemic diseases, the most prominent being diabetes and cardiovascular diseases,” explains Professor Anton Sculean, chair of the EFP projects committee. “Despite the advances in understanding oral diseases, cavities still affect over 50% of children, gingivitis impacts up to 90% of the adult population, and 23% of older adults suffer from edentulism. These figures highlight the importance of understanding how oral health evolves over time,” he notes. 

Among adults, dental caries remain a significant concern, with prevalence rates between 40% and 90% in different populations. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings, at intervals tailored to individual needs, are vital to prevent gum disease and tooth loss. The EFP emphasises the importance of linking oral care to overall health management, particularly because oral diseases are associated with chronic conditions like diabetes and heart disease. 

As people age, additional challenges arise. Almost all adults over 65 (96%) have had cavities, and one in five live with untreated tooth decay. Many older adults experience dry mouth (xerostomia), often caused by medications, which increases the risk of cavities and infections. Polypharmacy (the use of multiple medications) can further complicate oral health. Good oral hygiene, including twice-daily brushing with fluoride toothpaste, interdental cleaning, and regular dental visits, is essential for seniors. Denture care also plays a key role in preventing infections and maintaining comfort. 

Manel Vera, CEO of Dentaid, says: "Our mission is to promote and improve people's oral health throughout their lives, based on innovation and continuous research. In addition to researching, developing, and providing solutions tailored to each need, we have a responsibility to raise social awareness about oral health. With this campaign, in collaboration with the European Society of Periodontology, we aim to provide high-quality, referenced information so that people can achieve better oral health, better overall health, and a higher quality of life throughout their lives.” 

Sculean adds: “Oral health is an essential part of overall wellbeing, and its importance increases with age. Periodontal disease is not just a natural consequence of aging, and for both adults and seniors, addressing the challenges associated with aging, chronic diseases, and medications is crucial to preserving oral function, preventing complications, and enhancing quality of life. By promoting regular visits to your dental team, maintaining good oral hygiene, and managing health conditions effectively, individuals can achieve better oral health and improved overall wellbeing.” 

With this campaign, EFP and Dentaid aim to empower people to take charge of their oral health, every step of the way.

Explore the campaign