SHERIDAN, WYOMING - November 10, 2025 - Over the past five years, FDI World Dental Federation's Tobacco Cessation project has redefined the role of oral health professionals in combating one of the world's leading causes of preventable disease and death. By integrating evidence-based cessation strategies into dental practice, the initiative has empowered dentists and hygienists worldwide to help patients take meaningful steps toward quitting tobacco.
Building Global Capacity Through Education
Launched in 2020, the project established an ambitious goal: to embed tobacco cessation counseling directly into everyday dental care. FDI's interactive workshops-centered on the 5As (Ask, Advise, Assess, Assist, Arrange) and 5Rs (Relevance, Risks, Rewards, Roadblocks, Repetition)-equip participants with the communication tools and clinical confidence needed to address tobacco use during routine appointments.
Between 2021 and 2025, these workshops reached:
- 18 countries and territories
- Over 1,100 participants, including dentists, hygienists, and oral health educators
By providing actionable frameworks and real-world practice scenarios, the sessions have helped redefine what preventive oral healthcare can achieve.
Turning Education Into Measurable Impact
Participant feedback has highlighted the program's tangible results within clinical settings. One attendee shared, "The workshop enabled me to integrate tobacco cessation as a priority issue in my clinical practice, rather than something secondary. It helped me understand that even a brief intervention can make a difference."
Another participant added, "I now feel more confident when talking to patients and explaining the harms of smoking. One sentence that has stayed with me is: 'Half of those who smoke will develop cancer.' It had a strong impact on me and strengthened my motivation to advise patients."
National Dental Associations (NDAs) have also praised the initiative's effectiveness. All seven NDAs that completed post-workshop evaluations gave the program the highest possible rating-proof that the workshops resonate across diverse health systems and cultural contexts.
Adapting to Emerging Challenges
Beyond its educational success, the project has evolved in response to shifting public health dynamics. Participants identified several critical areas for future focus:
- Integrating relapse prevention and psychological support into follow-up care
- Addressing the rise of vaping and youth tobacco use
- Customizing interventions to local needs and national regulations
This feedback underscores the importance of flexibility and continuous learning in tackling tobacco-related challenges within oral health practice.
Strategic Relevance for Dental Associations
The initiative illustrates how professional organizations can amplify their public health influence. For NDAs, hosting a Tobacco Cessation workshop is not only an opportunity for education but also a pathway to enhance national oral health strategies. With financial and organizational support from FDI, local associations can strengthen their networks, build internal training capacity, and position themselves as leaders in preventive care advocacy.
Call to Action: Join the Movement in 2025
FDI's Tobacco Cessation program continues to expand in 2025, with an open call for new workshop hosts. Each selected country receives 1,000 Swiss Francs in support to organize events and mobilize dental teams eager to promote smoke-free living.
These workshops serve as catalysts for healthier communities, empowering practitioners to take a proactive stance in reducing tobacco-related harm. Associations interested in joining the initiative can apply via projects@fdiworlddental.org and learn more at fdiworlddental.org/tobacco-cessation.
By uniting education, advocacy, and community engagement, the FDI Tobacco Cessation project continues to prove that dental professionals are powerful allies in the global fight against tobacco use.