The Platform for Better Oral Health in Europe warmly welcomes the inclusion by WHO of fluoride toothpaste as an essential medicine in the 22nd list of World Health Organization Model List of Essential Medicines. Untreated dental decay is the most common non-communicable disease both worldwide and in Europe. Fluoride toothpaste is proven to substantially reduce rates of tooth decay and this recognition by the WHO is essential in reducing levels of disease.

This is an important milestone in oral health care as it paves the way for emphasizing the importance of fluoride toothpaste in oral care regimes and health promotion initiatives.

The Platform calls on the European Union to secure access to affordable fluoride toothpaste for all EU citizens helping to ensure that good oral health can become a reality for all.