09.28.12
•Americans are smitten with white smiles, but it appears consumers aren’t so interested in costly professional whitening options. According to new research from Mintel, only 10% of those looking for brighter smiles took a seat in the dreaded dentist chair for a professional whitening service.According to Mintel, 41% have tried to whiten their teeth in the past 12 months using toothpaste, while 17% have given it a whirl with at-home mouthwash and 15% with OTC whitening strips.
“Some of the key growth drivers in the oral care market include an increased interest in whitening capabilities and products that deliver multiple benefits,” said Gabriela Mendieta, home and personal care analyst at Mintel. “Also, many consumers are becoming more aware of how oral care affects their general health and marketers can use this opportunity to push products that not only help with teeth and gums, but one’s overall well-being.”
According to Mintel, in the last year, 41% of consumers have tried to whiten their teeth at home using toothpaste. |
“The list goes on and on…whether it’s gum disease, tooth sensitivity or dry mouth—there is a toothpaste or mouthwash product out there for you,” added Mendieta. “Oral care products that feature multiple attributes are expected to do well with consumers in the coming years as it is more cost effective to buy one product that helps with several needs.”
The relation between oral health and general health may be a selling point for marketers to drive sales and encourage users to widen their oral care repertoires and regimens. In fact, the floss/accessories/tools segment increased by more than 2.8% in sales from 2010 to 2011, more than any other oral care segment. Mintel research suggests that this could grow further if marketers create ads that highlight the link between oral bacteria and the potential for risk in other areas of the body.
More info: www.mintel.com