Preventive Dentistry as a Guarantee of Health: “Gum Health Day” 2026

Authors

  • Yuliia Kolenko Bogomolets National Medical University, Kyiv, Ukraine
  • Volovyk Iryna Bogomolets National Medical University, Kyiv, Ukraine
  • Nataliia Gryg Bogomolets National Medical University, Kyiv, Ukraine

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.33295/1992-576X-2026-3-PRED-1

Keywords:

prevention, gingivitis, periodontitis, occlusal pathology, orthodontic treatment, smoking, risk factors, screening

Abstract

Background. Modern periodontology views periodontal diseases not merely as localized oral pathologies, but as critical components of systemic health. Disease prevention remains the cornerstone of overall wellness. Among international public health initiatives, “Gum Health Day,” organized by the European Federation of Periodontology (EFP), represents one of the most prominent frameworks for advancing preventive dentistry.

Objective. To analyze oral and periodontal health parameters among young adults within the framework of the international event “Gum Health Day 2026.”

Materials and Methods. A total of 12 young adults underwent comprehensive preventive periodontal and oral examinations during the “Gum Health Day 2026” initiative. Clinical evaluation included the DMFT index, O’Leary Plaque Index, Bleeding on Probing (BOP) index, and Periodontal Screening and Recording (PSR) codes. Local and systemic risk factors were recorded, and the gathered data underwent statistical analysis (M ± m, Me[QIQIII]).

Results and Discussion. A high prevalence of periodontal disease was established among the examined cohort (66.7%, n = 8), represented by dental plaque-induced gingivitis. Key local and systemic risk factors affecting oral health were identified, predominantly inadequate oral hygiene, orthodontic anomalies/occlusal pathology, and nicotine product consumption (smoking).

Conclusions. Periodontal disease prevention, risk factor identification, early diagnosis, and the promotion of a oral and gum health culture constitute essential strategic priorities in modern dentistry. Disease prevention is fundamental to preserving both oral and systemic health.

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Author Biographies

Yuliia Kolenko, Bogomolets National Medical University, Kyiv, Ukraine

Doctor of Medical Sciences, Professor, Head of the Department of Therapeutic Dentistry and Periodontology

Volovyk Iryna, Bogomolets National Medical University, Kyiv, Ukraine

Candidate of Medical Sciences, Associate Professor, Associate Professor of the Department of Therapeutic Dentistry and Periodontology

Nataliia Gryg, Bogomolets National Medical University, Kyiv, Ukraine

Candidate of Medical Sciences, Associate Professor, Associate Professor of the Department of Therapeutic Dentistry and Periodontology

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URL: https://sepa.es/en/featured-new/the-global-initiative-working-together-is-launched-a-milestone-in-dentistrys-contribution-to-public-health/

URL: https://www.who.int/news/item/29-05-2026-who-urges-governments-to-protect-young-people-from-addiction-to-tobacco-and-nicotine-products

Published

2026-07-30

How to Cite

Kolenko Ю., Iryna В., & Gryg Н. (2026). Preventive Dentistry as a Guarantee of Health: “Gum Health Day” 2026. Actual Dentistry, (3). https://doi.org/10.33295/1992-576X-2026-3-PRED-1

Issue

Section

PREVENTIVE DENTISTRY AND ORAL HYGIENE