Introduction

The use of dentifrices and mouthwashes or mouthwashes that have fluoride in their composition has been extended since it has been shown that this element has a high activity against cariogenic bacteria. However, excessive intake of any of these products can cause poisoning that leads to various long-term pathologies.

Objectives

The objective of this study is to determine the fluoride content of dental products (dentifrices and mouthwashes) to assess whether there is any type of risk by accidentally ingesting large amounts of these in certain population groups and comparing the experimental levels with those declared in the labelling.

Material and methods

A total of 117 samples of dental products have been analyzed by potentiometry with fluoride selective ion electrode.

Results and discussion

The highest concentration of fluoride (18412±0.009 mg/kg) has been recorded in the Vitis® junior tutti frutti flavor toothpaste. The highest level of fluoride found in mouthwashes (2703±38.4 mg/L) has been registered under the Lacer® Oros brand.

Conclusions

There is no risk if brushing is done correctly and, in the case of children, in a supervised way to avoid accidental ingestion. However, if produced, very high amounts of these products would be needed to trigger a toxic effect in the short and long term.

        · abstract in Spanish     · text in Spanish     · Spanish ( pdf )