Colgate has announced a landmark achievement for its global oral health education initiative, Bright Smiles, Bright Futures (BSBF) – reaching 2 billion children across the world. In India alone, the program has touched over 185 million children and their families, thanks to collaborations with state governments and local partners.
Launched in 1991, BSBF was designed to bridge the gap in oral healthcare by providing education, free dental screenings, and access to treatment in underserved communities. The initiative embodies Colgate’s vision of creating healthier, brighter smiles for everyone. By engaging parents, teachers, dental professionals, and policymakers, Colgate continues to champion preventive oral hygiene as a public health priority.
Oral health remains a major challenge in India, where limited access to dental care and lack of awareness often lead to high rates of tooth decay and gum disease among children.
Shilpashree Muniswamappa, Director – ESG & Communications, Colgate-Palmolive (India) Limited, said: “Colgate is committed to supporting India’s transition from reactive to preventive healthcare. Our Bright Smiles, Bright Futures® program, in partnership with state education and health departments across Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Assam, Bihar, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, and Goa, shows the power of collective action in driving awareness and inspiring behavior change. Every year, we aim to reach over 10 million children and their families, building lifelong oral health habits.”
As India’s healthcare ecosystem evolves, Colgate reaffirms its mission to ensure every child – from urban centers to remote villages – can access education that builds confidence, transforms smiles, and promotes a lifetime of better oral health.
