Geneva, Switzerland, 19 May 2026 — A new global report identifies workplaces as one of the most promising and underused platforms to improve oral health, boost productivity and strengthen workforce well-being. The report, Oral Health at Work: A Roadmap for Prevention, Productivity and Workforce Well-being, released today by FDI World Dental Federation (FDI), offers a first comprehensive look at how oral health is beginning to be implemented across workplace settings worldwide.

The report draws on early evidence, policy analysis and real-world examples to show how this emerging field is taking shape and where it can go next.

“This report does not just describe a problem, it identifies a strategic opportunity,” said Asst. Prof. Dr Nikolai Sharkov, FDI President. “For the first time, we are seeing how workplaces can become a platform to improve oral health through prevention, early intervention and better health outcomes.”

A major health and economic issue

Oral diseases affect 3.7 billion people globally and cost the economy an estimated US$710 billion each year, including US$323 billion in lost productivity. Yet oral health remains largely absent from workplace health strategies. That gap has significant consequences: employees miss work, productivity declines and many continue working in pain or discomfort.

“This is a workforce issue, an economic issue and a health system issue,” added Asst. Prof. Dr Nikolai Sharkov.

Early signals of change

While workplace oral health is still at an early stage globally, examples across different countries and systems demonstrate clear potential, despite remaining fragmented.

The report identifies four main implementation pathways:

• Regulatory or hazard-anchored models
• Occupational health-embedded models
• Public health–anchored models
• Employer and insurer–enabled prevention and access models

Aligned with the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Global Strategy and Action Plan on Oral Health 2023–2030, the report reinforces the need for integration.

“Workplace oral health programmes must be seen as part of broader health system strengthening efforts,” said Dr Benoît Varenne, Technical Lead for Oral Health at WHO. “They should be embedded within occupational health services, aligned with strategies for the control of non-communicable diseases, and supported by financial protection mechanisms that ensure equitable access to essential oral health care without financial hardship.”

From insight to action

The report sets out a practical roadmap to move from fragmented initiatives to scalable action, with six priorities:

• Align policy across health, labour and occupational systems
• Mobilize employers and insurers as partners in prevention
• Develop practical implementation frameworks
• Strengthen evidence and data
• Expand partnerships and advocacy
• Pilot, evaluate and scale solutions

A clear opportunity and a call for action

With adults spending around one-third of their lives at work, workplaces offer a unique opportunity to reach populations often underserved by preventive care.

The report calls for coordinated action across policymakers, employers, insurers and health systems. Without it, efforts will remain fragmented. With it, the potential is clear: improved health outcomes, reduced economic burden and stronger workforce productivity.

Through its Vision 2030 advocacy strategy and collaboration with industry partners, FDI aims to support the development, implementation and scaling of workplace oral health initiatives globally, helping translate this potential into real-world impact.

The report is being launched during a side event at the 79th World Health Assembly (#WHA79), where global leaders will discuss how to turn these insights into action.

— ENDS —

About the report:

Read the full report (under embargo until 18:30 CET, Tuesday 19 May 2026)

The report was developed with the support and engagement of FDI’s Vision 2030 Industry Action Group: Colgate-Palmolive Company, Haleon, Henry Schein, Ivoclar, Kenvue, Planmeca, Smile Train and Solventum.

Media contact:

Dr Charanjit K. Jagait, FDI Public Health, Advocacy and Communications Director

Mob.: +41 79 796 76 13; Email: cjagait@fdiworlddental.org

About FDI World Dental Federation (FDI)

FDI World Dental Federation serves as the principal representative body for over one million dentists worldwide. Its membership includes some 200 national dental associations and specialist groups in over 130 countries. FDI envisions a world with optimal oral health. www.fdiworlddental.org