Fluoride content and labelling of toothpastes marketed in Indonesia

Introduction
Information on the fluoride content in toothpastes commercialised in Indonesia is not yet available.

Objectives
The objective of this study is to determine the fluoride content of toothpastes marketed in Indonesia and to determine if the fluoride content is in accordance with the information provided on the packaging and following the standards from evidence-based dentistry and Indonesian regulations.

Material and methods
In vitro analysis of total fluoride (TF) in 10 brands of toothpaste for adults and eight for children, purchased from different stores. The toothpastes were analysed in triplicate using a fluoride ion-selective electrode. Statistical analyses were performed using a one-sample t-test or one-sample Wilcoxon signed-rank test to compare the difference between the fluoride concentration stated on the tube and the measured value.

Results
The TF concentration in toothpastes for adults and children did not match the fluoride content provided on the packaging for most samples. Eleven toothpaste brands contained fluoride > 1000 ppm F, whereas the others contained fluoride < 1000 ppm F. Only one toothpaste contained fluoride that matched the standard from evidence-based dentistry and Indonesian regulations.

Conclusions
Most toothpastes for adults marketed in Indonesia do not meet the required fluoride concentration for caries control. The results call for strengthened regulation and quality control of fluoride toothpaste in Indonesia to provide the maximum anti-caries effect.