Fluoride content in toothpastes commercialized for children in Chile and discussion on professional recommendations of use.
BACKGROUND
In Chile, no information is available regarding the soluble fluoride (F) content in the toothpastes commercialized for children and the country's guidelines recommend the use of F in toothpastes in an age-dependent concentration. No global consensus has been reached on this subject.


OBJECTIVE
To determine the soluble F concentration in dentifrices for children sold in Chile and to discuss Chilean guidelines and professional recommendations of use.


METHODS
Three samples of twelve different dentifrices were purchased from drugstores. Toothpastes were analysed in duplicate using an ion-specific electrode. The concentrations of total F (TF) and total soluble F (TSF) were determined (μg F/g).


RESULTS
Measured TF was consistent with that declared by the manufacturer in eight products. Two dentifrices showed lower TF and two higher F concentrations than declared. A toothpaste, marketed as low-F (450 ppm), showed F concentration threefold higher. Most dentifrices exhibited TSF concentrations similar to the TF content, except one sample that displayed considerably lower TSF than TF. Recommendations on F toothpastes use in children widely vary from country to country.


CONCLUSIONS
Most dentifrices for children match F content in the labelling, but recommendations are not supported by the best evidence available on the benefit/risk of F toothpastes use.
Cariology Unit, Department of Oral Rehabilitation, University of Talca, Talca, Chile. giacaman@utalca.cl
Rodrigo A
RA
Giacaman
Carola A
CA
Carrera
Cecilia
C
Muñoz-Sandoval
Constanza
C
Fernandez
Jaime A
JA
Cury
D002327:Cariostatic Agents / Q000032:analysis*; D002648:Child; D002654:Child Care; D002675:Child, Preschool; D002677:Chile; D005459:Fluorides / Q000032:analysis*; D009050:Fluorosis, Dental / Q000517:prevention & control; D017408:Guidelines as Topic; D006801:Humans; D011356:Product Labeling; D014100:Toothpastes / Q000737:chemistry*
D002327:Cariostatic Agents; D014100:Toothpastes; D005459:Fluorides