Dr. Nikolai Sharkov Appointed President of the World Dental Federation

For the first time, a Bulgarian has been appointed head of the World Dental Federation. Honorary member and former president of the Bulgarian Dental Association (BDA), Dr. Nikolai Sharkov, officially assumed office as President of the World Dental Federation (FDI). The ceremony took place during the opening of the World Dental Congress in Shanghai, China. It was attended by representatives from over 134 countries and nearly 200 national dental associations.

“I have been working for the World Dental Federation since 2003. As President, I assume responsibility for all member states and national associations,” Dr. Sharkov said in a telephone interview with BTA. He emphasized:

“This is the first time a Bulgarian has held such a position.

This is a significant achievement both for dental medicine in our country and for the nation as a whole.”

Among his main priorities as President will be the “Vision 2030” strategy. It is aimed at integrating oral health into general healthcare, global partnerships with the UN, WHO, and the governments of member states. Furthermore, it focuses on improving access to dental care for vulnerable groups. Dr. Sharkov will also work toward digital transformation in dental medicine. His priorities will include the introduction of global programs for the continuing education of specialists.

“I have a vision for leadership based on trust, unity, harmony, and transparency,” he stated in an official press release. He noted that his first commitments include participating in the Fourth UN High-Level Meeting on Non-Communicable Diseases and Mental Health, which will be held in September in New York.

Among the challenges, Dr. Sharkov highlighted efforts to protect dental professionals and the implementation of effective preventive policies. He commented that despite the high level of fluoride prophylaxis, some countries, including the USA, are discussing the removal of water fluoridation—an issue on which the FDI will continue its active work.

“Bulgaria has had a prevention program for children for years. I hope that it will be expanded to reduce both morbidity and treatment costs, which are often a burden for patients,” the FDI President added to BTA.