Wrigley has launched the Wrigley Oral Healthcare Programme (WOHP) in India, an initiative designed to support dental professionals by providing them information and practical resources to promote a healthy oral care routine among their patients in the Indian context. The programme has been brought to India after its launch in 46 countries and being tested and innovated at every stage.

The WOHP will support independent clinical research into preventive dentistry keeping in mind Indian lifestyle and food patterns. It will support oral care professionals with continuing education programmes and conferences, and foster oral health education through digital media, brochures and other materials.

With over two decades of clinical research and consumer outreach, the WOHP helps oral care professionals and patients worldwide to understand the role of sugar-free gum in a regular oral care routine. With clinical research proving that chewing sugar-free gum, like Orbit, can reduce the incidence of tooth decay by up to 40 per cent, dentists around the world are agreeing that 'Check-up, Brush, Floss, Chew' is a strong combination for healthy teeth and healthy gums.

The Wrigley Oral Healthcare Programme is a holistic approach to promote good daily oral care routines and improve overall oral health consciousness in India. It provides dental professionals and consumers with the latest information and advice on oral healthcare, said Gautam Sharma, managing director, Wrigley India.

Oral Health is critical for overall health. Bad oral health can result in heart disease and strokes that can be potentially fatal. Oral health in India is a growing concern for Indian Dental Association (IDA). WOHP in India, which will bring dental professionals and students together, will develop research initiatives and exchange programmes and encourage clinical research on plaque reduction and saliva stimulus. "All this will help generate greater awareness of oral health, something we sorely need among our people," said IDA president Lt Gen Dr Paramjit Singh.

"India, produces approximately 19,000 dental graduates every year and is becoming a favoured tourist destination for dental treatment of international standards. However, we need to create awareness about oral health. WOHP through clinical research on various issues like plaque reduction, saliva stimulation will further empower the dental fraternity with new empirical data and promote good oral routine in India," said IDA Hon secretary general Dr Ashok Dhoble.