Oral diseases are among the world’s most prevalent health conditions and disproportionately affect vulnerable populations. Yet despite commitments from the United Nations and World Health Organization to advance Universal Health Coverage, many people still lack access to essential oral health care or face financial hardship when seeking it. While oral health is increasingly recognized as an important part of social development, effective, scalable, and context-sensitive community-based solutions remain limited.
Join faculty from Harvard School of Dental Medicine and Heidelberg University for a discussion of SMILE-Bridge, a new joint initiative that brings together expertise in oral public health to advance oral health among underserved populations through collaborative, participatory research.
Meet the speakers
This event is part of Worldwide Week at Harvard, showcasing the remarkable breadth of Harvard’s global engagement. During Worldwide Week, Harvard Schools, research centers, departments, and student organizations host academic and cultural events with global or international themes. This year’s Worldwide Week at Harvard will be held October 11–17, 2026.
Read more about HSDM and Heidelberg University receiving a grant to study oral health in disadvantaged communities across the globe.
Harvard School of Dental Medicine and Heidelberg University receive a strategic partnership grant to advance global oral health research in underserved communities.
