In Romania, the two-year SmilebrightRo pilot programme aims to address the country's high rates of early childhood caries. Led by the University of Medicine and Pharmacy ‘Victor Babeș’ Timișoara, in partnership with five medical universities and the Ministries of Health and Education, the initiative combines daily supervised toothbrushing for nursery children aged three and four, regular distribution of free toothbrushes and fluoridated toothpaste, and twice-yearly fluoride varnish applications.
A key element of the programme is the training of dental hygienists to deliver oral health education to children, parents, and nursery staff, helping to strengthen the preventive workforce. The project also includes qualitative research to identify barriers and facilitators to implementation. The aim is to develop a sustainable, evidence-based model for preventive oral healthcare in early years settings that could be expanded nationwide, reducing inequalities and improving children's oral health.
The SmilebrightRo pilot programme has recently received national recognition. At the Romanian Dentistry Gala, an annual event organised by the Romanian Dental Board, the programme was nominated in the category of Best Social Responsibility Programme Developed by an Institution. Among five shortlisted nominees, SmilebrightRo was selected as the winner, an honour that reflects the programme's innovative approach and potential public health impact.