Fluoride Content, Cost and Labelling of Commercially Available Toothpastes in Malaysia
10.21315/aos2019.14.2.377
- Author:
Juwairiah Wafa Anis
- Collective Name:Mohammad Haniff Abdul Hamid; Norasmiha Mohd Nor; Nor Azlida Mohd Nor
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords:
Cost;
fluoride;
labelling practice;
toothpaste;
Malaysia.
- From:Archives of Orofacial Sciences
2019;14(2):113-131
- CountryMalaysia
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
The objectives of this study were to document the ingredients of toothpastes that are available in
Malaysia and to explore the cost, manufacturers’ recommendations for toothpaste use and their labelling
practices. Commercially available toothpastes were identified from online and offline (over-the-counter)
markets. An online search was conducted through major online shopping websites in Malaysia. For
the offline market, selected major pharmacies, supermarkets, family marts and traditional medicine
stores in the Klang Valley area were visited. Relevant information (i.e. the type of fluoride, fluoride
concentration, type of abrasive agent, price per item and recommendation for use) on the toothpaste
packaging were recorded. Data were analysed descriptively using Microsoft Excel and SPSS. A total of
176 brands of toothpaste were identified in this survey. About 74.57% and 25.43% were indicated for
adults and children use respectively. Among these, 47.98% were labelled as fluoridated toothpaste and
50.29% were labelled as non-fluoridated toothpaste. Different units of labelling were used to indicate
the presence of fluoride and its concentration. Generally, common abrasive agents used were silica,
phosphates and carbonates. The cost of toothpaste per 10g ranged from RM0.10 to RM9.50, with
mean of RM1.90 (SD 1.93). Manufacturers’ recommendation of toothpaste use varied with a small
proportion following evidence-based recommendations. In conclusion, there were a large variety of
toothpastes available in Malaysia. The cost of toothpaste varied greatly across brands. There was a lack
of standardisation regarding labelling practices and recommendations of use by the manufactures, which
may place the consumers and dental health professionals at a disadvantage.
- Full text:2.2019my01781.pdf
