Grants & Awards
GUM EDHF Award of Distinction
Celebrating dental hygienists who elevate oral health across Europe
What is the GUM EDHF Award of Distinction?
The GUM EDHF Award of Distinction, proudly presented by Sunstar, is an annual recognition program that honors dental hygienists across Europe who have made an outstanding contribution to their profession.
This award celebrates success stories in areas such as patient care, community work, education, and research—acknowledging individuals whose dedication has helped advance oral health and elevate the role of dental hygienists in society.
Winners of this regional award will be automatically entered as candidates for the 2026 World Dental Hygienist Awards, gaining global recognition for their achievements.
Why apply to the GUM EDHF Award of Distinction?
Winning a GUM EDHF Award of Distinction is an opportunity to:
- Be recognized internationally for your achievements
- Showcase your impact on patients, communities, and the profession
- Join a wider community of dedicated dental professionals
- Qualify as a candidate for the 2026 World Dental Hygienist Awards
What Are the Award of Distinction Categories?
Public Health
For dental hygienists involved in organized community programs that focus on preventing and controlling dental disease and promoting oral health
Full-Time Clinician
For dental hygienists who provide direct patient care for 32 hours or more per week
Academia
For those in a full-time educational role within a dental hygiene program, who are shaping the next generation of dental hygienists
Entrepreneur
For dental hygienists who have founded or manage a personal business that contributes to the advancement of oral health or benefits dental patients
New RDH
Open to hygienists who graduated in 2020 or later (within the past 5 years), honoring rising professionals who are already making a difference
Research
For dental hygienists who have authored a peer-reviewed research paper within the last 3 years (lead author only if multiple authors)
How does the Award of Distinction Work?
Choose Your Category
Select one of six award categories that best matches your profile
Submit the Nomination
Complete a short set of written questions explaining how you (or the colleague you’re nominating) have elevated the profession
Selection Process
All eligible entries are anonymized and evaluated by an independent panel of internationally recognized dental hygienists
Awards & Recognition
Winners receive a €1,000 cash prize and are automatically entered as candidates for the 2026 World Dental Hygienist Awards, with global recognition at the International Symposium on Dental Hygiene in Milan
Discover the winners from other editions
FAQs
Who can apply to the Award of Distinction?
Dental hygienists currently residing and working in any European country are eligible to apply. You can either nominate yourself or a colleague, as long as the nominee is a registered dental hygienist.
What are the award categories?
You must apply under one of the following six categories: Public Health, Full-Time Clinician, Academia, Entrepreneur, New RDH (Graduated 2020 or later), and Research. Only one category may be selected per applicant. Your first nomination counts, and any later submissions will be disregarded.
What do I need to submit?
You’ll be asked to answer a set of short written questions (150–350 words each) explaining your achievements within the selected category. The nomination must be written in English. No additional documents are required.
Can I nominate someone else?
Yes! You can nominate a colleague, provided they meet the eligibility criteria. Just make sure you have their consent to submit the application on their behalf.
How are the winners selected?
All eligible entries are blinded and reviewed by an independent selection committee of internationally recognized dental hygienists. Judges use a standardized scoring system and must disclose any potential conflicts of interest.
How many winners will there be?
One winner is selected per category—six winners in total for the 2025 edition.
What are the prizes?
Each winner receives a €1,000 cash prize, along with automatic entry as a candidate for the 2026 World Dental Hygienist Awards, providing the chance to be recognized at the ISDH in Milan, Italy.
What are the key dates?
Applications are now open until September 15th, 2025. Winners will be announced in November 2025.
Request more information
Are you a journalist or do you work for a media outlet?
If you'd like more details about the World Dental Hygienist Awards, please contact us at corporate.communications@sunstar.com. We'd be delighted to provide additional information or answer any questions you may have.