Experts in periodontology from 30 national scientific societies specialising in gum health gathered in Santiago de Compostela, Spain, at the beginning of April to celebrate the executive committee meeting and general assembly of the European Federation of Periodontology (EFP), under the presidency of Juan Blanco, a professor of periodontology at the University of Santiago.

The EFP general assembly also included the official launch of European Gum Health Day 2017, being celebrated on 12 May to raise public awareness across Europe of the importance of keeping gums healthy throughout life. 'Fighting periodontal disease together' is the slogan chosen by the EFP to remind authorities and the public that gum health is an achievable and cost-effective way to improve general health, public health, and the quality of life of citizens everywhere.

As part of European Gum Health Day 2017, around 25 national societies of periodontology are organising a wide range of public events, conferences, communication initiatives, periodontal check-ups and other activities in countries from Morocco to Finland, and from Ireland to Israel.

www.efp.org.