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Estimation of toothpaste fluoride intake in preschool children

Helena Aguiar Ribeiro do Nascimento1, Jainara Maria Soares Ferreira, Ana Flávia Granville-Garcia

  • 1Department of Dentistry, UFPB - State University of Paraíba, Campina Grande, PB, Brazil.

Brazilian Dental Journal
|June 20, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Many young children risk dental fluorosis due to improper toothpaste use. This study found 19.5% of children aged 2-6 in Brazil exceeded safe fluoride intake levels, highlighting a need for better oral hygiene education.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Dentistry
  • Public Health
  • Fluoride Toxicology

Background:

  • Dental fluorosis is a public health concern, particularly in developing regions.
  • Appropriate fluoride intake is crucial for preventing caries but excessive intake can lead to fluorosis.
  • Children aged 2-6 are particularly vulnerable to excessive fluoride ingestion from toothpaste.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To estimate fluoride intake from toothpaste in children aged 2-6 years in Campina Grande, Brazil.
  • To assess the risk of dental fluorosis based on estimated fluoride intake.
  • To identify factors associated with inappropriate toothpaste use and fluorosis risk.

Main Methods:

  • A cohort of 87 children (2-6 years) was studied.
  • Sociodemographic data and toothbrushing habits were collected via parental interviews.
  • Fluoride intake was measured using a precision scale and toothpaste fluoride content analysis.
  • Statistical analysis included chi-square and Fisher's exact tests.

Main Results:

  • 19.5% of the children were at risk of dental fluorosis.
  • Significant associations were found between fluorosis risk and brushing frequency, toothpaste application method, and caregiver involvement.
  • A high percentage of children demonstrated inappropriate toothpaste usage.

Conclusions:

  • Inappropriate toothpaste use is prevalent among young children in the studied Brazilian population.
  • A significant proportion of children are at risk for dental fluorosis.
  • Educational interventions targeting parents/guardians on proper toothbrushing techniques and fluoride dosage are warranted.

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