A few words about the importance of oral health

MANILA, Philippines -For some people, the sting that comes after every gargle is their sign that a mouthwash is actually working. However, this misconception has been dispelled when Pascual Laboratories (PascualLab) introduced OraCare in 2004. It is the first and only mouthwash product in the country that safely eliminates bad breath-causing bacteria without leaving a burning sensation.

While OraCare is sugar-free and alcohol-free, its breakthrough technology lies in its active ingredient stabilized chlorine dioxide (ClO2) which was stabilized for pharmaceutical use by Will Coronado, a doctor of science and a US-based Filipino-American.

ClO2 originated as a gas, with strong oxidizing properties that, through lab processing to aqueous solution and when added in mouthwash formulations like OraCare, releases oxygen that breaks down the cell wall of bad bacteria and eliminates odor-causing volatile sulfur compounds — thus, effectively keeping the mouth extremely clean and sanitized.

Chlorine dioxide was first discovered in 1811 by Sir Humphrey Davy, a recipient of the Noble Peace prize.  “It was unstable, had no shelf life, and was in different forms,” points out Dr. Coronado. In 1975, the process to stabilize the compound took place and the creation of a formulation to oral hygiene products ensued.

With further research and group collaborations, Dr. Coronado, et al. created another process to stabilize ClO2 — this time for pharmaceutical use.

Stabilized ClO2 was then proven safe and effective as a mouthrinse. It neutralizes odor-causing volatile sulfur compounds and works continuously by getting rid of bad bacteria that causes periodontal problems.

According to Dr. Coronado, these bad bacteria or anaerobic bacteria cannot be easily reached by brushing alone. “Naturally, you will assume that the way to remove this is by brushing your teeth — without considering that acid and plaque are also present at the back, roof of your mouth, your tongue, and the sides. Plaque only lasts for 24 hours; beyond that, it’s already called tartar, which is like cement that stubbornly stays there. This is why no matter how good you are at brushing your teeth, you’re only doing 25 percent of the job. Why? Because teeth are only 25 percent of your mouth,” clarifies Dr. Coronado.

Unlike mouthwashes that contain alcohol (which are big molecules that can only reach good or surface bacteria), the stabilized chlorine dioxide in OraCare (which has minute molecules) only targets the anaerobic (or bad) bacteria while maintaining the mouth’s natural flora.

“Many have called OraCare a miracle drug. I beg to disagree. Its effect is not because of some miracle but of the power of its active ingredient, a wonder of science and a breakthrough in chemistry,” he argues.

Dr. Coronado believes that proper education, awareness, regular visits to the dentist, and the use of safe and effective products are keys to better dental habits.

To know more about OraCare’s gentle yet effective anti-bacteria action, check out www.oracare.com.ph.