Helen Skelton supports new oral health campaign

New research from Philips Sonicare reveals that 79% of members of the public believe that people are judged for their oral hygiene and the appearance of their teeth. The impact this has on their confidence, ability to have a relationship and their employability cannot be underestimated. The survey, conducted by Philips Sonicare, outlines the psycho-social impact of poor oral hygiene: 

• 79% of the public surveyed believe that people are judged for their oral hygiene and the appearance of their teeth 
• 61% believe that poor oral hygiene impacts one’s confidence 
• 49% of those survived feel that that the effects of poor hygiene impacts one’s ability to have a relationship 
• 42% believe that visibly poor oral hygiene means they assume people don’t take care of themselves 
• 38% feel that the effects of poor oral hygiene impacts one’s employability 
• 29% believe that their poor oral hygiene has stopped them going on a date or meeting new people 
• 16% believe that their poor oral hygiene has stopped them applying for a job 

The research reveals that looking after your oral health and hygiene is crucial – not only to your health, but when it comes to your employability, relationships, and confidence.  However not everyone has access to even the most basic products – toothbrushes and toothpaste – to enable them to take care of themselves and their families.   

Philips Sonicare has partnered with the Hygiene Bank charity to ensure that everyone has access to oral healthcare products and is donating £1 of every Philips Sonicare toothbrush being sold through Boots. The campaign will run from 29 May to 11th June 2025.

Aston spoke to TV presenter Helen Skelton.