Colgate-Palmolive (India) Limited has announced a nationwide initiative to expand access to preventive dental care by offering free dental check-ups, reinforcing its Oral Health Movement on the occasion of World Health Day. The program aims to address gaps in dental awareness and access by enabling millions of Indians to connect with qualified dental professionals.
The initiative builds on strong momentum from the previous year, during which more than 4.5 million dental screenings were conducted across the country. Despite this progress, oral health remains a significant concern in India, with studies indicating that nine out of ten individuals experience dental issues. Changing dietary habits, including higher consumption of sugary and processed foods, along with inconsistent oral hygiene practices, have contributed to this trend. A large proportion of urban Indians do not brush at night, while many in rural areas do not brush daily. At the same time, only a small percentage of the population visits a dentist annually, despite recommendations for regular check-ups.
To improve accessibility, Colgate has partnered with the Indian Dental Association, bringing together a network of 63,000 dentists across the country. Consumers can access free dental consultations by scanning a QR code available on Colgate toothpaste packs, completing a short assessment, and receiving a personalized dental screening report. The platform then connects users to nearby participating dentists for in-person consultations.
Recognizing the challenges in rural areas, where dentist availability remains limited and travel distances can be significant, the initiative also includes virtual consultations. Through a collaboration with Bajaj Health, users can consult dentists remotely, ensuring that distance does not hinder access to professional care.
Gunjit Jain, Executive Vice President, Marketing at Colgate-Palmolive (India) Limited, stated that the initiative is designed to shift behavior from reactive treatment to proactive prevention by removing barriers to dental care. He emphasized that the combination of physical and virtual consultations significantly expands reach and impact.
Dr Ashok Dhoble, Honorary Secretary General of the Indian Dental Association, noted that large-scale access to dental professionals can play a transformative role in improving oral health outcomes nationwide.
By integrating technology with everyday consumer products, the initiative encourages early diagnosis and regular dental engagement. The program reflects Colgate’s continued commitment to improving public health and promoting better oral hygiene practices across India.
Colgate-Palmolive (India) Limited, a leading oral care company in the country, continues to focus on community programmes alongside its business operations. Through education initiatives, sustainability efforts and product innovation, the company aims to support healthier lifestyles for children and families across India.
