The Oral Health Report 2022 from the World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that roughly 46% of persons 30 years of age and older have gum disease. This is one of the most prevalent oral conditions that affect adults in their middle years, which is also the main factor in tooth loss. Moreover, we are led to believe that we are doomed to lose all our teeth as we age, just like our parents and grandparents. However, did you know that this is preventable? You can keep a healthy mouth, even as you age, with good oral hygiene. Good oral health is a lifetime commitment, the earlier you develop good oral hygiene habits, like brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash, the easier it will be to avoid expensive dental operations and more serious oral health problems as you age.

“The dental profession strives to reduce the consequences of oral health disease in the country. A lot don’t know that as we age, oral health problems become more common. These can take a toll on a person, causing mental distress, impaired social function, and worsening health condition. I’m very happy that Johnson & Johnson Consumer Health Philippines is spreading awareness with the advocacy of “Mouth Aging.” Just remember, the progression of oral health diseases as you age can be hindered with regular visits to the dentists and by practicing proper oral hygiene: brushing, flossing, and rinsing with a mouthwash.” Dr. Jose Angelo “Gelo” Militante, oral and maxillofacial surgeon and immediate past president of Philippine Dental Association.

Last April 13, 2023, Listerine held a talk on the significance of protecting your mouth as you age. It was moderated by Listerine brand ambassador Macoy Dubs, and it featured special guests Dr. Jose Angelo “Gelo” Militante, an oral and maxillofacial surgeon and immediate past president of the Philippine Dental Association, who spoke about the aging mouth and the need to act immediately to improve overall oral health, and Dr. Ashita Bhatia, associate director research & development for Johnson & Johnson Consumer Health APAC, who shared the science behind Listerine and how it is the best mouthwash partner for people who are experiencing mouth problems as they age. 

“We at Listerine envision a world where everyone, everywhere realizes the transformative impact of good oral health. We are committed in helping every Filipino enjoy healthier mouths for longer by raising awareness on the impact of aging on the mouth, and educating on the essential role of mouthwash and how Listerine helps #FightMouthAging”, says marketing manager for Listerine Philippines, Miguel Gamboa.

Learning how to get your mouth clean with a brush, floss, and rinse routine may be as simple as it sounds but maintaining a consistent oral care regimen is a different story. We all know that brushing alone only reaches 25% of your mouth, and that it  leaves behind oral problem-causing germs that damage your oral health. “As you age, your body’s ability to fight germs and infections weakens, making you prone to oral health problems. Using a mouthwash like Listerine is essential as you age because it reaches the whole mouth and gives you protection from these germs. Just swish two times daily after every brush.” says associate director for research & development for Johnson & Johnson Consumer Health APAC, Dr. Ashita Bhatia. 

With Listerine Total Care Zero it helps you #FightMouthAging because it gives up to 24-hour complete germ defense to fight cavities, plaque, and gum problems. It also has four essential oils, namely thymol, eucalyptol, menthol, and methyl salicylate which has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties, offers lasting freshness, to help keep your teeth and gums healthy, even as you age. Aside from this, Listerine Total Care Zero has zero alcohol for a mild taste and contains fluoride to strengthen enamel and give protection against cavities.

Investing in your oral health is critical, especially if you want to have a healthy mouth that lasts a lifetime. It’s crucial to take the right steps every day to take care of our overall oral health  and this involves getting the right oral care regimen of brushing, flossing, and using Listerine.

Listerine is available in Watsons both online and in-store, and in official Johnson & Johnson Shopee and Lazada pages. To know more about Listerine visit www.listerine.com.ph and follow Listerine on their Facebook @ListerinePhilippines.