Commissioned by the National Institute for Health and Disability Insurance (NIHDI), an oral health survey in Belgium is being organised for the third time (Oral Health Data Registration and Evaluation System – OHDRES). This oral health survey is being conducted following the National Health Survey 2023 in collaboration with Sciensano and the Interuniversity Cell Epidemiology (ICE), a consortium of researchers affiliated with KU Leuven, UCLouvain, UGent and ULB.

The health survey consists of data collection via a survey among more than 11,300 Belgians, conducted by interviewers from Sciensano. This is complemented by data based on a clinical oral examination that will be carried out on 2,675 individuals who also participated in the health survey. The Interuniversity Cell Epidemiology coordinates the clinical data collection. The collected data will enable the government and all oral health professionals involved to obtain a clear picture of the current oral health status in Belgium, the principal risk factors and evolutions since the previous data collection (2009 and 2013). This information is essential to improve the general well-being of the population based on an efficient and balanced health policy.