Prague – September 09, 2026 -- The International Dental Federation (FDI) has launched a new global campaign called "Generation Smile — the movement for oral health for all," unveiled at the FDI World Dental Congress in Prague. The initiative serves as a new platform for World Oral Health Day (WOHD) and carries the first-year theme "Join Generation Smile."

The campaign frames oral health as a lifelong responsibility rather than an age-based category, inviting people of all backgrounds to take part through simple daily actions like brushing twice a day, visiting the dentist regularly, and encouraging others to care for their teeth and gums.

Nearly 3.7 billion people worldwide are affected by oral diseases

Prof. Dr. Nikolai Sharkov, president of the FDI, said the scale of untreated oral disease globally is unacceptable, citing the figure of almost 3.7 billion people affected. He described Generation Smile as an invitation for individuals everywhere to join a movement intended to leave a lasting legacy for future generations.

Dr. Anna Lella, president of the World Oral Health Day Task Force, said the campaign treats the smile not as the end goal but as a symbol of what a healthy mouth makes possible — including confidence, comfort, connection, and overall wellbeing.

A digital global mural invites public participation

Generation Smile introduces a new visual identity inspired by urban street art, designed to cross cultural and national borders. As part of the campaign, people worldwide are being invited to add their voice to a "digital global mural,