At the 47th Asia-Pacific Dental Congress (APDC), recently held in Vietnam, the P/S brand announced its microbiome technology in Pro-Care toothpaste.

Doctor Robert Marriott, a representative from Unilever's Research and Development department, stated that while oral bacteria were previously seen as harmful agents to be eliminated, new research reveals the oral cavity is a complex ecosystem, home to diverse groups of microorganisms.

According to Doctor Robert Marriott's scientific report, "Balanced Oral Microbiome - The Foundation of Good Oral Health", plaque is not merely residue, but a "biofilm" with a tightly structured form, akin to a "miniature city". Within this, many microbial groups play essential roles in maintaining a healthy oral environment. If this ecosystem develops uncontrollably and becomes disrupted, it directly causes plaque, gingivitis, and tooth decay.

Doctor Robert Marriott, a representative from Unilever's Research and Development department, presents the scientific report at the conference. *Photo: Unilever*

Anatomical facts highlight a significant point: teeth only account for about 20% of the oral cavity's surface area, while mucous membranes and soft tissues comprise the remaining 80%. Traditional brushing is primarily a mechanical abrasive method, akin to "breaking down the structure" of plaque surfaces. However, if brushing is done without specialized coordinating active ingredients, a large portion of the soft tissue surface area is overlooked, inadvertently disrupting the oral environment's balance.

Oral diseases do not operate in isolation. Experts affirm the oral cavity is the gateway for all systemic diseases. When the oral ecosystem is imbalanced, and the biofilm is disrupted, it creates conditions for harmful bacteria and inflammatory agents to enter the bloodstream. Thus, daily oral hygiene becomes an essential preventive medical therapy at home.

Building on a comprehensive understanding of the oral ecosystem and Unilever's superior R&D foundation, P/S has for the first time introduced microbiome technology into its P/S Pro-Care product line.

P/S announces its new P/S Pro-care toothpaste product. *Photo: Unilever*

Through a mechanism that provides billions of active ions to support beneficial bacteria, this technology directly maintains biological balance, thereby strengthening natural protective barriers during daily hygiene routines. Instead of eliminating bacteria in the oral cavity, P/S Pro-Care aims to help maintain a balanced oral environment, contributing to a more sustainable foundation for oral care.

A P/S representative stated that with P/S Pro-Care, oral care will shift towards long-term foundational care. “When scientific advancements are incorporated into essential products, consumers gain more opportunities to access proactive, comprehensive, and suitable care solutions for modern health needs”, the brand representative said.

Doctor Robert Marriott presents and answers questions from the audience about microbiome technology in oral care. *Photo: Unilever*

The 47th Asia-Pacific Dental Congress was held for the first time in Vietnam, gathering over 8,000 delegates, including dentists, experts, researchers, and businesses in the domestic and international dentistry sector. With the theme "Applying Scientific Advancements to Dental Practice", the congress served as a crucial professional forum to update new trends in oral care, from clinical research and product technology to public health improvement solutions.

The introduction of microbiome technology at the 47th Asia-Pacific Dental Congress demonstrates P/S's efforts to connect specialized research, product innovation, and community health care needs. This marks a significant transformation, making macro-research achievements an essential and easily accessible health care solution for all consumers.

P/S also hopes to continue accompanying Vietnamese consumers on their journey to elevate oral health care standards, fostering more scientific, proactive, and comprehensive habits for Vietnamese smiles.

Yen Chi