ABRASIVE: TOOTHPAST ANALYSIS SOLD IN SALVADOR

Abstract

Most toothpastes sold in Brazil contains abrasive composition with the function of preventing the formation of spots or pigmented film and burnish the tooth surface, however, the indiscriminate use of abrasives has generated discussion regarding the effects of this component. Objective: To evaluate dentifrices sold in the city of Salvador as to its commercial presentation, regarding the inormation contained in the packages related to abrasives, in order to verify if guidelines are offered to the public to assist them in choosing those products and to the professionals when it comes to the guiding elements of the prescription. Methodology: We have analyzed 45 packages of toothpaste, randomly purchased from supermarkets in Salvador, for two years. We have observed the following: component that guides the classification of toothpaste, type and concentration of abrasive and instructions with respect to the degree of abrasiveness. Results: All trademarks contained abrasive analyzed singly or in combination; eight types of abrasives have been found: Calcium Carbonate (27%), Silica (26%), Sodium Bicarbonate, Silicon Dioxide, Titanium Dioxide, trisodium phosphate, aluminum oxide and sodium silicate. Manufacturers have associated to the dentifrices naturals extracts with the purpose to prevent the dental color change without tooth and gengival aggression caused by abrasives associations. Conclusion: Lack of guidance on packaging about the level of abrasiveness of toothpaste that can guide patients and professionals to its rational use.