Free Dental Check-ups during Oral Health Month begin in New Delhi

Colgate-Palmolive (India) Limited, the market leader in oral care, in association with the Indian Dental Association (IDA), as part of its Oral Health Month 2008 initiative has organized free dental check-ups in New Delhi through October 2008.

Over 10,000 participating dentists will conduct free dental check-ups across 200 cities as part of the OHM program to spread the awareness of good oral hygiene.

Those interested in availing the free dental check-ups can call the toll free OHM helpline 1800-22-55-99 or SMS their postal pin code to 5676725 for information on a dentist in their neighbourhood. The dentist details are provided as a reply to the SMS. They then need to make a call to the dentist for an appointment, and schedule their free dental check-up. A specially designed ‘Spread – a – Smile’ voucher is to be provided by the dentist to encourage friends and family of the consumer to also avail of the free dental check-up.

Mr. Roger Calmeyer, Managing Director, Colgate-Palmolive (India) Limited said, “The Oral Health Month program has grown phenomenally in the last five years. Over the years, through OHM, we have intensified awareness activities promoting the benefits of oral hygiene habits, and in our fifth year, we have committed to reach over 200 cities in partnership with the dental fraternity. We are delighted by the support of the IDA and the participating dentists for volunteering their time and effort in this national campaign.”

Dr. Alok Bisht, Member, Indian Dental Association, said, “We are proud to be associated with Colgate for Oral Health Month. Oral health is vital to one’s overall health. Yet it is often neglected until a toothache makes it unbearable. For most, oral care is about finding a cure for their toothache, little realizing that a few simple every day routines can prevent painful cavities and enable people of all ages to enjoy healthier lives. There is a lot to do but we believe that together, with Colgate, we have made a good beginning.”

About Oral Health Month 2008

Oral Health Month 2008 is an intensive month-long oral health awareness campaign that establishes and promotes the importance of good oral health habits for all ages. Conducted in association with the Indian Dental Association (IDA), OHM has become a leading campaign for establishing and promoting improved oral hygiene habits in India. What started off as a 6-city program with 70 participating dentists in 2004, in its 5th edition this year, will cover over 200 cities with over 10,000 dentists participating through free dental check-ups and awareness generating activities. This is a big leap from last year alone, when 8,300 dentists extended their support for the program.

About the Indian Dental Association

The Indian Dental Association, formed in 1946 is the largest recognized body of dental professionals in India, which has helped shape the National Oral Health Policy. Working towards the promotion, encouragement and advancement of dental and allied sciences the IDA has a national presence with 27 state branches and over 200 local branches spread across India. It has a combined strength of around 15,000 dentists and student members registered with it.

About Colgate-Palmolive (India) Limited

Colgate-Palmolive (India) Limited is India’s leading provider of scientifically proven oral care products with multiple benefits at various price points. The range includes toothpastes, toothpowder and toothbrushes under the “Colgate” brand, as well as a specialized range of dental therapies under the banner of Colgate Oral Pharmaceuticals. These have become an essential part of daily oral hygiene and therapeutic oral care in India. The Company also provides a range of personal care products under the ‘Palmolive’ brand name. Colgate has been ranked as India’s Most Trusted Brand across all categories for four consecutive years from 2003 to 2007 by Brand Equity’s Most Trusted Brand Survey. Prior to this, Colgate was also rated as the #1 brand by the A&M – MODE Annual Survey for India’s Top Brands for eight out of nine years during the period 1992 to 2001. For more information about Colgate’s business and products, visit the Company’s website on the internet at www.colgate.co.in.

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