TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Mars Taiwan and the Carrefour Foundation have joined forces for the fifth consecutive year to promote World Oral Health Day, urging the public to maintain daily dental care—even during holidays and long weekends.
A survey commissioned by Mars Taiwan of 1,067 adults aged 20 to 49 found that holiday routines often disrupt oral hygiene. Skipped brushing, irregular schedules, and increased snacking can raise the risk of cavities, gum inflammation, and other health issues.
Taiwan is expected to have nine long weekends this year, totaling roughly 120 holiday days. The survey revealed that:
Sleep habits: Over 60% stay up late, rising to more than 70% among those aged 20–29
Eating habits: Nearly half eat more than five times daily; over 40% consume sugary drinks
Oral hygiene: Around 30% admitted to skipping brushing due to irregular sleep patterns
Alternatives: 77% reported using sugar-free gum when brushing is inconvenient
Huang Yao-hui, vice president of the Association of Family Dentistry, identified four main holiday risks to oral health: prolonged mouth acidity from frequent eating, skipped nighttime brushing, reduced saliva from dehydration, and increased emergency dental visits for toothaches and cracked teeth.
Huang emphasized that poor oral hygiene not only causes pain and tooth loss but also affects mental health, self-confidence, and healthcare costs. Chronic oral inflammation has been linked to higher risks of systemic diseases.
He recommended following four core practices consistently:
Check: Regular dental visits
Brush: Twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
Floss: Daily interdental cleaning
Chew: Sugar-free gum or use mouthwash after meals when brushing is not possible
Research from King’s College London shows that sugar-free gum can reduce tooth decay by 28%, lower cavity-causing bacteria, and decrease plaque buildup. Chewing gum also stimulates saliva production, helping neutralize acids and protect teeth, particularly for busy individuals.
Lin Meng-shao, Carrefour Taiwan Sustainability Manager, said, “Oral health is closely linked to overall health. We’re proud to support the Sunshine Social Welfare Foundation and raise awareness of proper dental care.” Jelina Wan, Mars Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Macau General Manager, added, “Good oral health is the foundation of quality of life. That’s why Mars continues to promote dental care habits from an early age.”
In a charitable initiative running through late March, 2% of sales from selected sugar-free gum and mint tablets will be donated to the Sunshine Social Welfare Foundation to support oral health programs.
The campaign underscores the message that consistent dental care is essential for overall well-being, regardless of changes in daily routines.