ADA, FDI World Dental Organization to observe World Oral Health Day
CHICAGO--The American Dental Association will join with the FDI World Dental Federation in observance of the second annual World Oral Health Day Sept. 12, 2009.
The purpose of this day is to increase global awareness for oral health, as well as the impact of oral diseases on general health and well-being.
Throughout the world, dental caries or tooth decay is the most common chronic disease, particularly affecting children and disadvantaged populations. Dental disease results in unnecessary pain and suffering, and missed work or school days.
Periodontal or gum diseases have been associated with diabetes, adverse pregnancy outcomes and other systemic ailments. Untreated tooth decay seriously affects a person's quality of life.
"The American Dental Association stands with the FDI and other national dental associations around the world in focusing attention on how crucial good oral health is to overall health," said Dr. John S. Findley, ADA president.
According to the FDI, Sept. 12 was chosen to coincide with existing oral health days around the world, to honor FDI founder, Dr. Charles Godon, who was born Sept. 12, 1854.
In addition, the date jointly celebrates the anniversary of the World Health Organization's International Conference on Primary Health Care at Alma Ata, Kazakhstan, that took place Sept. 12, 1978.
More information about World Oral Health Day is available on the FDI Web site at FDI World Dental Federation.
To read more about FDI, go to FDI World Dental Federation.
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