Spectrophotometric Analysis of Fluoride Concentration in Dentifrices for Children in India

BACKGROUND: There is a need to monitor the fluoride content of dentifrices used for children in a country like India, where there is prevalence of endemic fluorosis. AIM: To evaluate the fluoride content of dentifrices for children available in India. SETTINGS AND DESIGN: In vitro study in a laboratory setting. METHODS: About 27 major supermarkets/departmental stores in Chennai city were approached by the investigator. All dentifrices indicated for children, available in these stores were included in the present study. A total of four different dentifrice brands were procured from these outlets. For each brand of dentifrice, three samples were randomly chosen and used for fluoride analysis. The fluoride content was assessed in triplet by using spectrophotometric analysis, by a single blinded examiner. The test sample was compared to a standard solution, in a calibration curve to determine the fluoride concentration. RESULTS: The mean fluoride content of dentifrices, indicated for children was 449.5 ± 26.1 ppm. CONCLUSIONS: All brands of commercially available dentifrices indicated for children had optimum amount of fluoride.