Oral diseases place a significant burden on individuals, health systems and economies, costing an estimated US$710 billion annually worldwide, including US$323 billion in lost productivity. 

Poor oral health contributes to absenteeism, presenteeism and reduced quality of life, making it an issue that extends beyond healthcare and into the workplace. At the same time, workplace conditions such as long working hours, shift schedules, stress and dietary environments can influence oral health behaviours and outcomes. 

With nearly 60% of the world’s working-age population in employment and work occupying approximately one-third of adult life, the workplace represents a unique opportunity to reach large numbers of adults in a single setting, supporting a wide range of oral health interventions, from awareness and prevention to early detection and access to care.

Bringing oral health into the workplace

In the latest episode of the Dental Check-Up podcast, Prof. Manu Mathur, Dr Maria Ryan and Dr Romila Gobin-Beharee explore why workplaces are an important yet underused setting for improving oral health. 

Drawing on findings from FDI’s Oral Health at Work report and experiences from both the public and private sectors, the discussion examines how workplace initiatives can support oral health promotion, reduce barriers to care, while highlighting practical approaches for employer engagement.

Building on Mauritius’ experience of delivering oral healthcare directly to employees through mobile dental teams, the episode provides valuable insights into how oral health services can be brought closer to working populations. The conversation also explores approaches to securing employer support for workplace oral health initiatives and sustaining momentum at a time when healthcare funding is under increasing pressure, including the need to improve oral health literacy, measure impact and strengthen the evidence base for investment.

From ambition to practical action

Bringing together perspectives from policy, public health and industry, the episode highlights practical solutions for integrating oral health into workplace wellness and occupational health programmes. It demonstrates how evidence, collaboration and innovative delivery models can help translate ambition into action and make the workplace an effective platform for advancing oral health and well-being.

Take the next step

The conversation offers practical insights for employers, policymakers, as well as dental professionals looking to make oral health part of the workplace well-being. Listen to the latest episode of the Dental Check-up podcast to hear how this can work in practice and explore FDI’s report for evidence and recommendations to support action.

Listen to the episode: Oral health at work: where the solution lies | FDI

Read the report: Oral Health at Work: A Roadmap for Prevention, Productivity and Workforce Well-being | FDI