Signal: Changing the oral healthcare habits of a nation
Saturday, 24 May 2014 00:00
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Widely recognised as a key player in Sri Lanka’s oral health care sector for generations, Signal today has completed 55 years of being the toothpaste of choice among Sri Lankans.
Looking back at a story closely entwined with the country’s progress made in the area of oral health, Signal has much to be proud of in its legacy of cultivating sound dental health in the country, says Siddharth Banerjee, Marketing Director of Unilever Sri Lanka.
For over 36 years, Signal has worked in association with the Sri Lanka Dental Association (SLDA) in delivering a message of good oral health care to the country.
Empowering communities with sound oral health habits and giving rural communities the opportunity to participate in oral healthcare initiatives, Signal has been able to make a significant contribution to the dental health sector in Sri Lanka, says Banerjee.
“Over the years, these initiatives have served as learning platforms for thousands of children and adults, some of whom may not have access to proper dental care.”
“Good oral health care starts in the home, with the family. The mother can encourage children to brush regularly as well as educate them on the correct method of brushing. She can also limit the intake of food that can cause tooth decay,” says Wathsala Aluthgedera, Category Head – Oral Care at Unilever Sri Lanka. “Having been a leading oral health brand in Sri Lanka for 55 years, Signal has always been associated closely with the development of good oral habits for the entire family.”
“Today’s eating patterns have changed considerably, posing a challenge developing good dental habits,” says Sumudu Thanthirigoda,Senior Brand Manager – Signal. “The intake of sweetened food and drink has increased and the task of reducing cavities and managing good oral health has become relevant more than ever before. Against such a backdrop, as a part of its mission on completion of 55 years, Signal seeks to ensure a cavity free Sri Lanka as a vision that can be achieved in the near future.”
As a flagship brand under the Unilever umbrella, Signal has been engaging with the oral healthcare sector in the country in a consistent manner. Signal’s ‘Sina Bo Weva’ campaign has been able to drive a momentous effort of delivering sound oral healthcare to the community.
“Signal Sina Bo Wewa as an oral health care initiative took off in 2004 and to date, we have reached over 800,000 people who have participated in the initiative while 60,000 have received treatment for various dental issues,” says Banerjee.
Signal plans to continue with its mission of ensuring a reduction in dental cavities in Sri Lanka, especially among the younger generations. “With a heritage of 55 years in delivering oral health care to all Sri Lankans, we believe we have a strong mandate that encourages and supports proper oral healthcare initiatives of the future,” concludes Banerjee.
