Abstract

MAGALHAES, Ana Carolina; MORON, Bruna Mangialardo; COMAR, Lívia Picchi  and  BUZALAF, Marília Afonso Rabelo. Rational use of dentifrices. RGO, Rev. gaúch. odontol. (Online) [online]. 2011, vol.59, n.4, pp. 615-625. ISSN 1981-8637.

Brushing of the teeth with fluoride toothpaste is an important method for the prevention of dental caries and periodontal diseases, due to both the removal of dental plaque and the administration of chemical agents present in dentifrices, such as fluoride and antimicrobials. As there is a variety of dentifrices available on the market, with different chemical formulations, it is important that dentists should be aware of the composition of dentifrices and also of the recommendation criteria for each kind of toothpaste that is available on the market. Initially, this text will address the detailed composition of the dentifrices with the objective of providing support for dentists to know how and when to recommend each kind of toothpaste. Subsequently, the main recommendations which the dentist should give to the patient will be summarized based on meta-analyses, systematic reviews and randomized, controlled clinical studies, according to each age group, for the prevention of both dental caries and periodontal diseases. Additionally, other oral problems that may arise concurrently, such as worn teeth, hypersensitivity and dental staining are considered. Based on this review, it can be concluded that the recommendations for the use of dentifrices must be made with caution, as the etiology involved in oral problems is diverse, embracing a number of factors that cannot be controlled with just one specific toothpaste.

Keywords : Dental caries.; Dentifrices.; Periodontal diseases..