Listerine promotes Mouthwash for World Oral Health Day

On the occasion of World Oral Health Day, LISTERINE®, #1 mouthwash brand in the world[1] and a pioneer in the mouthwash industry today hosted ‘Listerine Labs”, an immersive event which highlighted the importance of holistic oral care by using a daily mouthwash and showcased Listerine’s pioneering legacy in mouthwash research and development for the last 145 years.

The Listerine Labs event saw a host of interactive demos and scientific immersions around oral care including ‘What remains in your mouth even after brushing, a ‘Mouthwash customization’ station as well as showcased the brand’s advanced product innovations which promise to help remove 99.9% germs[2], help protect from cavities by strengthening enamel and reduce plaque, thus providing science-backed efficacy.  The experiential event was attended by leading health influencers.

The event also saw an engaging panel discussion with members from the Indian Dental Association (IDA) including Dr. Ashok Dhoble - Honorary Secretary General IDA HO, Dr. Deepak Muchhala - Honorary Treasurer IDA HO,  Dr, Sanjay Joshi- Joint Secretary IDA HO and the Kenvue R&D team on the importance of oral care and the role of  mouthwash in general, as a part of the overall oral care regime.

Why Oral Care in India is a serious health concern

Globally and in India poor oral health remains a concerning public health issue. According to the World Health Organization, over 95% of adults in India have cavities. 6 out 10 adults[3] did not visit a dentist in the last year. Similarly, 8 out 10 children[4] suffer from oral health problems, a majority of children do not brush their teeth twice a day and 7 out 10 had not visited a dentist in the last year. 60% parents are unaware of their children’s oral health problems.

Commenting on the importance of oral care, Ashok Dhoble, Honorary Secretary General, Indian Dental Association HO said, “The Indian Dental Association recognizes the significant role of mouthwash as an essential component of comprehensive oral care protocols.  Oral care is often neglected in India with many both adults and children suffering from various oral care problems and along with infrequent dental visits. It is important to spread awareness on the comprehensive dental routines.”

 Highlighting scientific studies on the role of mouthwashes in oral care, Nagarajan Ramasubramaniam, Senior R&D Director, Kenvue India said, “There are often many myths associated with oral care, many believe that brushing alone is enough to maintain a clean and healthy mouth. However, these practices clean only some parts of mouth contributing to oral problems. Similarly, mouthwash is believed to only freshen breath, however by incorporating it into a daily oral hygiene routine alongside brushing can significantly help enhance oral health. LISTERINE®, powered by four essential oils like eucalyptol, menthol, methyl salicylate, and thymol, helps reduce plaque by 22.2 per cent and other gum problems by 28.2 per cent at six months.^[1]

Speaking on Listerine’s latest initiative, Manoj Gadgil, Business Unit Head-Essential Heal, Skin Health and Oral Care and VP Marketing, Kenvue said, “Cavities, gum problems and bad breath are leading oral health issues faced by consumers. In India, oral care is often neglected as part of the overall health regime, being largely curative rather than preventive. At Listerine, we aim to educate consumers on the importance of a comprehensive oral care regime by completing the routine by swishing twice daily with a mouthwash to help protect from cavities, gum problems and strengthen enamel to promote a healthy mouth as a fundamental step towards a healthier life.”