Last date for submission of paper: unknown; Contact person: Ian Richardson; Oral Health 2020 is known and celebrated for its high ethical standards and an awareness of its social responsibilities and public trust. To do so, the profession must find ways to provide care for those in need, regardless of their financial wherewithal or the challenges they present. Like general health, oral health has improved dramatically in recent decades. The percentage of children and adolescents aged 5 to 17 years who have never experienced dental caries in their permanent teeth continues to increase. Likewise, adult aged 18 to 34 years have less decay and fewer fillings in their permanent teeth than ever before. What's more, the percentage of people who have lost all their teeth has declined substantially in the last 30 years. In 1971-74, 45.6% of adults aged 65-74 were edentulous. In 1988-94, just 28.6% of people in this age group were edentulous. This Oral Health 2020 has been specially promised to focus on the health of the nation, including oral health, will continue to improve in the coming decades. Greater awareness of the health effects of lifestyle behaviours, such as tobacco and alcohol use, the value of physical exercise, basic hygiene and the role of diet, has contributed to a generally healthier population with increased life expectancy.