The first “Healthy Mouths” report from the makers of LISTERINE® and REACH® brand products finds that Hispanics need to rethink their cleaning routine when it comes to keeping their smiles healthy and sparkling.  According to the Hispanic Dental Association, the percentage of untreated oral disease for Hispanics (40 percent) is nearly double that for non-Hispanic whites (24 percent).

As part of the “Healthy Mouths” report from the makers of LISTERINE® Antiseptic and REACH® brand, 1,000 Hispanic Americans were surveyed and found that while a majority of Hispanic Americans (79 percent) have a higher level of concern for germs in their mouth, compared to the general population(66 percent), many are missing important steps in their oral care routine.  In fact, 95 percent of Hispanic Americans agree they need to do more to keep their mouths healthy than just brush. 

LISTERINE® Tips for Better Oral Hygiene

To feel better about yourself and your smile, here are five simple, effective and inexpensive tips:

•             Brush at least twice a day with a quality toothbrush that you can replace when the bristles become bent or fall out

•             Add a whitening mouthwash to your morning and evening dental care regimens

•             Use the easy-to-carry LISTERINE® WHITENING® PEN for targeted whitening in places that are hard to reach—like along the gum line

•             Avoid dark sodas and coffees that can stain the surface of your teeth

•             Drink plenty of water to keep your mouth moist and munch on raw fruits and vegetables to produce saliva which acts as a natural detergent

 About the Survey

On behalf of LISTERINE® Whitening, StrategyOne conducted a 15-minute online study from January 15, 2011 to January 25, 2011 among 2023 Americans on behalf of the makers of LISTERINE®.  The survey was weighted to the U.S. Census.  At the 95 percent confidence level, the margin of error is =/-2.2 percent. 

1.            ‘Redefine Clean’ Survey of 2,023 Americans, Hispanic American Summary, StrategyOne, January 2011

2.            Hispanic Dental Association (2010). “Education & Resources: Statistics”  http://www.hdassoc.org/site/epage/78844_351.htm