Colgate-Palmolive Company joined the Hispanic Dental Association (HDA) to celebrate the kick off of Colgate’s “Oral Health Month.” From now until June 30, this annual campaign will encourage the U.S. Hispanic community to join Colgate’s “fight for zero cavities” by educating families about the importance of proper oral care. The Hispanic population has become the largest minority group in the United States, resulting in an increase in oral health care demands. In fact, minority populations bear a disproportionate burden of oral disease in the United States, according to a recent report by the U.S. Surgeon General. Current data indicates that Hispanics have less access to dental care and are half as likely to visit the dentist regularly – in fact, approximately 51 percent of Hispanic adults (aged 18-64) in the U.S. did not go to the dentist in 2009.

Colgate’s flagship program Bright Smiles, Bright Futures™ will travel to under-served communities, in key markets throughout June to provide free oral health education, dental screenings, and treatment referrals to children, as well as education for parents on how they can maintain their families’ oral health. To learn more about Colgate’s Oral Health Month, please visit our bi-lingual website at www.Colgate.com/OHM or call Colgate’s Oral Health Month line at 1-888-646-2011 for information on Bright Smiles Bright Futures™ van visits, providing free dental screenings and education to children and families in need.