Fluoride content in toothpastes commercialized for children in Chile and discussion on professional recommendations of use.

Background: In Chile, no information is available regarding the soluble fluoride (F) content in the toothpastes commercialized for children and the country's guidelines recommend the use of F in toothpastes in an age-dependent concentration. No global consensus has been reached on this subject.

Aim: To determine the soluble F concentration in dentifrices for children sold in Chile and to discuss Chilean guidelines and professional recommendations of use.

Design: Three samples of twelve different dentifrices were purchased from drugstores. Toothpastes were analysed in duplicate using an ion-specific electrode. The concentrations of total F (TF) and total soluble F (TSF) were determined (μg F/g).

Results: Measured TF was consistent with that declared by the manufacturer in eight products. Two dentifrices showed lower TF and two higher F concentrations than declared. A toothpaste, marketed as low-F (450 ppm), showed F concentration threefold higher. Most dentifrices exhibited TSF concentrations similar to the TF content, except one sample that displayed considerably lower TSF than TF. Recommendations on F toothpastes use in children widely vary from country to country.

Conclusions: Most dentifrices for children match F content in the labelling, but recommendations are not supported by the best evidence available on the benefit/risk of F toothpastes use.