World Oral Health Day: What you need to know

World Oral Health Day, marked annually on 20 March, draws attention to oral health being a key indicator of overall health, well-being and quality of life.

Oral diseases are among the most common noncommunicable diseases worldwide, affecting an estimated 3.5 billion people.

Oral diseases and conditions cause physical symptoms, functional limitations, and a detrimental impact on emotional, mental and social well-being.

Among the six WHO regions, South-East Asia reports the highest number – approximately 900 million cases of oral diseases and conditions – reflecting the region’s large population.