European Study Aims to Remove Oral Care Barriers
Oral-B, in collaboration with the International Association for Disability and Oral Health (iADH), has launched 'The Big Rethink 2026', a significant European study focused on oral health among people with disabilities. Announced on 13th May in Barcelona, the initiative aims to address barriers in oral care through inclusive design and research.
The programme introduces Project Steady, a six-month study gathering real-world feedback from individuals with disabilities, their carers, and dental professionals across Europe. This study is one of the largest of its kind, aiming to improve oral health outcomes by understanding the daily challenges faced by people with disabilities.
According to new research from the Oral-B European Disability Study 2025, 41 per cent of Europeans identify as living with a disability, marking a four-point increase over previous years. The study highlights disparities in oral care experiences, with 52 per cent of those with physical disabilities and 63 per cent with cognitive disabilities reporting struggles, compared to 33 per cent of non-disabled people.
Project Steady's Innovative Approach
Participants in Project Steady will use Oral-B’s iO2 electric toothbrush with a new adaptive accessory designed to enhance control and ergonomics. This aims to provide a more accessible brushing experience, addressing everyday usability barriers and improving oral health results.
The pilot study, conducted earlier this year with dexterity-impaired patients, showed promising results, with 90 per cent reducing plaque accumulation and 40 per cent improving gum health after one month of using the adaptive accessory.
Paolo Grue, Senior Vice President of Oral Care Europe at Procter & Gamble, stated, "With Project Steady, we are building on our commitment by launching one of our most ambitious research initiatives to date, listening directly to people with disabilities and translating real-world insight into practical, inclusive solutions."
The study is part of Oral-B's ongoing efforts to make dental care more inclusive, which includes the Disability Champions programme and an education initiative with iADH to support disability-positive dental practices.
Last updated: 14 May 2026, 12:35 am
