Measuring Total and Ionized Fluoride Content in Toothpastes Used by Egyptian Children

Document Type : Original Article

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Pediatric Dentistry & Dental Public Health Department, Faculty of Dentisty, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt

Abstract

Background: As the prevalence of dental caries in Egypt is high, it is imperative that fluoride content in toothpastes be sufficient to prevent it. 
Aim: To measure total and ionized fluoride content in toothpastes most commonly used by Egyptian children.
Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out by conducting a pilot survey to determine the two most commonly used toothpastes by Egyptian children aged 2-6 years. Triplicates of each were purchased from different stores and emptied into sterile, labeled containers. An ion chromatography system with fluoride ion-specific electrode was utilized to measure total and ionized fluoride content in each of the triplicates.
Results: According to the pilot study, FKB and SKS tooth pastes were the two most commonly used in the Egyptian market. Total fluoride content in FKB was not declared on its box, and when measured was 878.23±26.76 ppm. Its ionized fluoride content was 648.87±47.93 ppm. Total fluoride concentration in SKS was declared to be 1000 ppm, and when measured was 896.73±25.12 ppm, while the ionized fluoride content was 686.07±68.53 ppm. Total and ionized mean released fluoride from both brands of toothpastes were all significantly lower than 1000 ppm (p<0.05), which is the fluoride concentration needed for caries prevention.
Conclusion: Fluoride content in the examined toothpastes is not coincident with that declared by the manufacturer, and significantly lower than the concentration needed for caries prevention. More care and better monitoring of toothpastes in the Egyptian market are recommended.
 

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