Analysis of toothpaste labeling regarding the compatibility between abrasives and fluorides

Abstract

Objective: to analyze toothpaste labeling regarding the chemical compatibility between the type of fluoride and the abrasive present in the formulations, evaluating compliance with current regulations established by the national regulatory agency. Methodology: this is a descriptive study based on the analysis of the labeling of 141 toothpastes manufactured between 1998 and 2023, with expiration dates ranging from 2001 to 2026. The selection of products was based on commercial availability in pharmacies and hypermarkets in the city of Salvador, Bahia, as well as inclusion in the collection of a research laboratory in oral biochemistry. The packaging analysis identified the presence of different types of fluorides and abrasives. Data were descriptively analyzed and presented as absolute and relative frequencies. Results:  of the 141 toothpastes analyzed, 85.82% (n = 121) contained fluoride in their composition, with sodium fluoride (NaF) being identified alone in 61.16% (n = 74) and sodium monofluorophosphate (MFP) in 33.06% (n = 40) of the fluoridated toothpastes. The most frequently observed fluoride concentrations were 1,450 ppm, found in 48.76% (n = 59), and 1,100 ppm in 20.66% (n = 25) of the sample. Eight different abrasive agents were identified. Silica, used alone, was present in 64.54% (n = 91) of the sample, while calcium carbonate was identified in 4.26% (n = 6). Regarding the association between fluorides and abrasives, silica was present in formulations with all types of fluorides, whereas calcium carbonate was only associated with MFP. Conclusion: the analysis revealed that fluoridated toothpastes, especially those containing NaF, are the most prevalent, and silica is the most commonly used abrasive. All fluoridated toothpastes analyzed showed adequate chemical compatibility between the type of fluoride and the abrasive used in their formulations.