The first-ever global oral health meeting, organised by the World Health Organisation (WHO), will host delegations from over 110 countries. It aims to produce national roadmaps and negotiate a joint declaration on oral health.

The declaration is expected to outline collective commitments from member states to accelerate the implementation of the ‘Global strategy and action plan on oral health 2023 to 2030’.

Oral diseases are the most common non-communicable diseases (NCDs) worldwide, affecting an estimated 3.5bn people.

Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO director-general, said “Oral health is an important part of wellbeing, yet millions of people lack access to the services they need to protect and promote their oral health.

“WHO calls on all countries to prioritise prevention and expand access to affordable oral health services as part of their journey towards universal health coverage.”

The landmark event is part of the preparatory process for the fourth UN High-Level Meeting on NCDs in 2025. It aims to accelerate progress towards universal health coverage (UHC), reaffirm political commitments made by member states, and promote the implementation of the ‘Global strategy and action plan on oral health 2023 to 2030’.

The Government of the Kingdom of Thailand hosted the meeting in Bangkok from November 26 to 29, 2024.

Somsak Thepsutin, minister of public health in Thailand, said, “Oral health is a crucial aspect of overall health, and Thailand is proud to host this landmark global meeting.

“Our commitment to universal health coverage includes ensuring that all citizens have access to quality oral health services and promoting prevention through our communities, reinforcing our dedication to improving health outcomes for everyone."

According to the WHO, oral health is often misunderstood as just dental health, and its broader importance is overlooked. Oral diseases include dental caries or cavities, gum disease, tooth loss, oral cancer, noma and birth defects, affecting the mouth, teeth and facial structures essential for eating, breathing and speaking.

During the meeting, a new global coalition on oral health is expected to be announced, aiming to foster partnerships to enhance the reach and effectiveness of oral health initiatives worldwide.

A declaration seeking to guarantee oral health as a fundamental human right is also expected.

The WHO added that improving access to affordable oral health care cannot be achieved without integrating it into primary health care and UHC packages.

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