Analysis of the Fluoride Concentrations in Commercially Available Mouthrinses

Objectives: The use of fluoride containing mouthrinses has been recommended in the treatment and prevention of dental caries. This study aims to assess the fluoride concentration of different commercially available mouthrinses in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and compare the values obtained with the manufacturers’ labels. Methods: A total of 25 brands of mouthrinses were identified in the markets of Riyadh city. Nineteen brands of mouthrinses whose labels indicate the presence of “NaF” were included in the study. Three products of the same manufacturing batch of each brand were acquired, coded and analyzed after dilution using specific electrode for fluoride and ion analyzer. Results: ANOVA showed a statistically significant difference (p<0.001) in the F concentration between the studied 19 brands. The mean F concentration ranges from 115.73±6.55 ppm (Nitra^®) to 513.67±6.31 ppm (Sensodyne^®-ProNamel^®). Student's t-test was used to compare the assessed mean F concentration to the manufacturer’s label value. F concentration in Colgate-Total^® (229.23±6.72 ppm) was significantly lower than the label value (250 ppm), while in Sensodyne^®-ProNamel^® (513.67±6.31 ppm) it was significantly higher than the label value (450 ppm). Six products (Colgate-Total^®, Enliven™, Lacalut^®, Listerine^®, Signal^®-Integral, Signal^®-Sensitive Expert) only contain F at a concentration not significantly different from the recommended F concentration in daily mouthrinses 0.05% (225 ppm). Conclusion: Most of the commercially available mouthrinses provide topical fluoride to the consumers at concentrations above the recommended 0.05%. Dental professionals need to communicate with the manufacturers to insure that more consistent F is supplied in their products.