‘Say NO to bleeding gums’
Gum Health Day 2020 on May 12 seeks to raise public awareness of the importance of identifying bleeding gums as a sign of gum disease, a chronic condition often associated with serious systemic diseases. This awareness initiative encourages people with bleeding gums to consult their dentist or pharmacist and encompasses dozens of activities in more than 40 countries across the world.
Using the slogan “Say NO to bleeding gums,” the EFP and its affiliated societies are preparing communication and educational activities for Gum Health Day on May 12, with the emphasis on online initiatives. The aim is to make millions of people aware that bleeding gums are not normal and that they indicate the presence of gum disease (gingivitis, periodontitis, or peri-implantitis). Gum disease affects oral health and can lead to tooth loss, problems with speaking and chewing, and can also compromise overall health and quality of life.
About Gum Health Day
Gum Health Day is an international awareness day held every year on May 12, whose aim is to increase public awareness of the seriousness of gum disease, the health problems associated with it, and the importance of keeping our gums strong and healthy.
It seeks to remind people that gum health is a key factor for overall health throughout life, and that gum disease is a relevant public-health concern because it is linked to very serious conditions, including diabetes, heart disease, and cerebrovascular disease. Gum health is relatively easy to maintain and may contribute to preventing many more serious conditions and thereby to saving many millions in medical costs.
Gum Health Day 2020 is the seventh EFP-promoted annual awareness day implemented by the national societies of periodontology. This initiative is now global in its reach and impact, and not only European.
Gum Health Day 2019 – using the slogan “Healthy gums, beautiful smile” – was joined by 47 national perio societies from four continents: 35 EFP-affiliated societies and 12 non-affiliated societies from Europe, Latin America, and Asia.
