- Hosts an immersive scientific event to highlight the importance of a holistic oral care by using a daily mouthwash
- According to the World Health Organization, over 95% of adults in India have cavities
- Cavities, gum problems and bad breath are the top oral health issues in India
National, March 22, 2025: On the occasion of World Oral Health Day, LISTERINE®, the #1 mouthwash brand in the world[1] and a pioneer in the mouthwash industry today hosted ‘Listerine Labs”. The immersive event 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 a showcase of the brand’s advanced product innovations which promise to help remove 99.9% of germs[2], 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 as part of an overall oral care regimen.
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 have not visited a dentist in the last year. Additionally, 60% of parents are unaware of their children’s oral health problems.
Commenting on the importance of oral care, Dr. 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 both adults and children suffering from various oral health problems as well as infrequent dental visits. It is important to spread awareness about 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. For instance, many believe that brushing alone is enough to maintain a clean and healthy mouth. However, this practice only cleans certain areas of the mouth, contributing to oral problems. Similarly, mouthwash is often believed to only freshen breath; however, incorporating it into a daily oral hygiene routine alongside brushing can significantly enhance oral health. LISTERINE®, powered by four essential oils—eucalyptol, menthol, methyl salicylate, and thymol—helps reduce plaque by 22.2% and other gum problems by 28.2% within six months.[5]
Speaking on Listerine’s latest initiative, Manoj Gadgil, Business Unit Leader-Essential Heal, Skin Health and Oral Care and Marketing Director, 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 overall health, with a focus that is more curative than preventive. At Listerine, we aim to educate consumers on the importance of a comprehensive oral care routine, which includes swishing twice daily with a mouthwash to help prevent cavities and gum problems, strengthen enamel, and promote a healthy mouth as a fundamental step towards overall well-being.”
Corporate Comm India (CCI Newswire)
