Gingi-what??!! - inaugural Gingivitis Week in April

Healthcare professionals are set to urge greater awareness regarding the risks associated with gum disease during the inaugural Australian "Gingivitis Week" (sponsored by Johnson and Johnson Consumer Group, manufacturers of Listerine) which will run from 22-27 April, 2007.

In recognition of the low understanding of gingivitis as a condition, the theme for the inaugural Gingivitis Week will be "Gingi-what?" - acknowledging the challenges ahead in educating consumers about the condition and ensuring the campaign begins at "first base" in building community awareness about the benefits of better oral hygiene.

The week will be used to promote new research on consumer awareness about the relationship between oral hygiene and better general health. Additional promotions will be underpinned by a series of high profile events in capital cities around Australia.

Dr Derek Lewis, Chairman of the Australian Dental Association Oral Health Committee said that any initiative like Gingivitis Week that promoted increased awareness of the health risks associated with gingivitis should be encouraged. He urged Australian healthcare professionals to play a role in educating their patients about the risks of gingivitis and the best methods for managing it.

"Gum disease is one of the most common health conditions in Australia but it is easily prevented. We need to urge our patients to brush, floss and rinse with a mouthwash effective against gingivitis," said Dr Lewis.