FDI Smile Award 2025 recognizes Australia and Philippines for community-driven oral health initiatives
SHANGHAI: The FDI World Dental Federation’s Smile Award 2025 shone a global spotlight on two outstanding projects transforming oral health access and education. At this year’s FDI General Assembly in Shanghai, FDI President Dr Greg Chadwick proudly presented the awards to the Australian Dental Association (ADA) Dental Health Foundation and the Philippine Dental Association (PDA) La Union Chapter, recognizing their innovative, sustainable approaches to preventive oral care.
Sponsored by Colgate, the Smile Grant provides CHF 5,000 in support to National Dental Associations (NDAs) that break barriers to care through outreach, education, and community-driven programs.
Australia: Smiles without borders
The Australian Dental Association Dental Health Foundation
In Australia, access to dental care remains out of reach for many vulnerable populations. Since 2021, the ADA Dental Health Foundation has been closing this gap through its Smiles Without Borders initiative.
Rather than building new clinics, the foundation partners with volunteer dentists, charities, and community groups to bring dental care directly to those who need it most.
Key programs include:
- Dental Rescue Days – free dental care events for those experiencing hardship
- Adopt A Patient – ongoing treatment support for individuals in crisis
- Rebuilding Smiles – specialized care for survivors of domestic violence
So far, nearly 1,000 patients have been treated through Adopt A Patient, over 1,500 appointments have been supported nationwide, and scholarships have been awarded to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students pursuing oral health studies.
This model not only addresses immediate needs but also strengthens the dental workforce and builds a foundation for long-term oral health equity.
Philippines: Little doctors, big impact
The Philippine Dental Association La Union Chapter’s Little Doctors Programme
The Little Doctors Programme by PDA La Union Chapter takes a unique, education-centered approach to oral health. Grade 5 pupils at Siwsiwan Elementary School are trained as “Little Doctors,” mentoring younger classmates on toothbrushing, preventive care, and first aid.
Inspired by the pioneering research of Dr Artemio Licos Jr., the program integrates:
- Daily toothbrushing drills
- Hands-on first aid practice
- Household health advocacy
This peer-to-peer model empowers children to bring healthy habits home, which is particularly impactful in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDA). Each year, a new class of Grade 5 pupils takes over, ensuring the program’s sustainability and long-term impact.
A shared commitment to oral health equity
Both the ADA Dental Health Foundation and PDA La Union Chapter exemplify how community-based initiatives can transform oral health outcomes. By combining education, outreach, and sustainability, these projects are building healthier futures—one smile at a time.
FDI and Colgate continue to encourage NDAs worldwide to submit innovative projects for the FDI Smile Grant, with applications open year-round and a submission deadline of February 1 each year.
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