The World Health Organization has released a new guideline supporting environmentally sustainable, less invasive and affordable oral healthcare.
Five notes:
1. The new guideline provides evidence‑based recommendations for the use of mercury‑free dental materials and minimal interventions to prevent and manage dental caries, according to a March 3 news release.
2. The recommendations are part of WHO’s Global Oral Health Action Plan 2023–2030, which calls for all countries to ensure access to preventive oral healthcare services as part of universal health coverage.
3. The guideline also provides information on integrating oral healthcare into primary healthcare.
4. Additionally, the recommendations promote environmentally sustainable approaches within health systems to align oral healthcare with broader global initiatives on climate action.
5. Among the clinical recommendations are fluoride varnishes, silver diamine fluoride, mercury-free restorations and special considerations for vulnerable groups.
