Spectrophotometric Analysis of Different Dentifrices Over Time

Introduction: Fluoride dentifrices remain the most widely used method of delivering topical fluoride. The efficacy of this method in preventing dental caries is proven by evidence-based science. The study was carried out to check if the total fluoride concentration remains the same or reduces over a period of its shelf life on storage. Aim and Objectives: The aim and objectives of this study are to evaluate and compare the total fluoride concentration of 7 dentifrices within 6 months of manufacture and 6 months before expiry. Materials and Methodology: This was a single-blinded in vitro study conducted in a laboratory setting. Different toothpaste brands that were readily available over the counter were selected: 3 were for adult use, 2 were herbal adult, and 2 were for kids. All the samples were tested for total fluoride concentration 6 months after manufacture and 6 months before expiry and retested for total fluoride concentration using a spectrophotometer. Results: An overall reduction was seen in total fluoride concentration from 6 months within manufacture to 6 months before expiry. Kids and herbal dentifrices with sodium fluoride showed greater reduction in total fluoride concentration than the other dentifrices. Sodium fluoride dentifrices showed more reduction as compared to sodium monofluorophosphates, but the values were not statistically significant. Conclusion: Adult, herbal, and kid’s dentifrices all showed a reduction in total fluoride concentration over time. Thus, suggesting to use of fluoride toothpaste close to the manufacturing date.