What are the World Dental Hygienist Awards?
Honoring excellence. Elevating voices. Celebrating impact.
The World Dental Hygienist Awards, proudly presented by the Sunstar Foundation with the International Federation of Dental Hygienists (IFDH) and supported by GUM, recognize dental hygienists from around the world who have made outstanding contributions to oral health. From clinical care and research to education and community impact, these awards celebrate dental professionals who are making a difference in people’s lives.
Winners are honored on a global stage at the International Symposium on Dental Hygiene (ISDH) for their dedication, leadership, and innovation. Apply now and share your story with the world.
Why apply to the World Dental Hygienist Awards?
Winning a World Dental Hygienist Award is an opportunity to:
- Gain global recognition for your dedication to advancing oral health
- Attend the 2026 International Symposium on Dental Hygiene in Milan and be honored in a ceremony with a cash prize
- Join a global network of inspiring dental hygiene professionals
- Elevate your profile on an international stage
What Are the World Dental Hygienist Awards 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, honoring rising professionals who are already making a difference
Research
For dental hygienists who have authored a peer-reviewed research paper from 2022 or later (lead author only if multiple authors)
How do the World Dental Hygienist Awards Work?
Choose & Apply
Pick a category and submit some written questions and a 1-min video.
Regional Qualifications
Winners from Europe and North America will be eligible for the World Dental Hygienist Awards.
Selection Process
The six winners from each region plus nominees from Africa, Asia and Oceania will compete at the WDHA
Awards & Recognition
Each winner receives a trophy, $1,500, and travel reimbursements for the WDHA ceremony at the International Symposium on Dental Hygiene.
A trophy as meaningful as the award itself
When the first Sunstar Foundation Award was presented in 2003, the Foundation Chairman, Hiroo Kaneda, envisioned a trophy as meaningful as the award itself. Mr. Kaneda commissioned the famous Italian architect, Mario Bellini to materialize this vision. Bellini's artistic contributions to society include Olivetti's typewriter and calculators, now found at the Museum of Modern Art in New York, and his latest architectural work is found at the Louvre Museum in Paris.
At the base of the trophy, is the following inscription in Italian: "Nell'albero infinito della ricerca scientifica è racchiuso il mistero dell'evoluzione dell'umanità." Translated in English, it means: "The mystery of human evolution is enclosed within the infinite tree of scientific research."
When viewed from the front, the trophy is shaped like the symbol for infinity and infers a quantity without bound or end. The "S" shape of the symbol is also meant to embody science and the Sunstar company. It is a fitting tribute to the Sunstar Foundation Award recipients.
Discover the winners from other editions
FAQs
Who can apply to the World Dental Hygienist Awards?
Dental hygienists from around the world are eligible. Applicants from Europe and North America must first participate in their respective Regional Awards of Distinction before qualifying for the global awards.
What categories can I apply for?
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.
How do I apply?
Applicants must answer a set of written questions about their professional contributions and submit a 1-minute video explaining why they or their nominee should be recognized.
Can I nominate someone else?
Yes. You may nominate yourself or someone else, as long as the nominee meets all eligibility criteria.
What prizes are awarded to the winners?
Winners will be honored in an awards ceremony at the 2026 ISDH in Milan. They will also receive a $1,500 cash prize, and reimbursement for participation and travel to the 2026 ISDH.
How are the winners selected?
An independent panel of dental hygienists will review all eligible submissions using a standard scoring system.
Public voting on SUNSTAR’s YouTube channel may also influence final results.
How many winners will there be?
One winner is selected per category—six winners in total for the 2025 edition.
What should be included in the nomination video?
Your video should highlight your achievements and explain why you or your nominee deserves the award, while adhering to the guidelines for effective presentation.
How can I make my nomination video stand out?
Use clear, high-quality visuals and sound. Present in landscape mode, ensure good lighting, and keep the background professional and distraction-free.
What are the key dates?
Applications are now open until January 15th, 2026 (12pm CET). Winners will be announced in April 2026, and the awards ceremony will take place at the International Symposium on Dental Hygiene in July 2026.
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.