Conhecimento de pais e/ou responsáveis sobre o uso de dentifrícios fluoretados em crianças.

Abstract

In recent decades, there has been a decline in the prevalence of dental caries attributed to the use of fluoride products. However, an increase in the prevalence of dental fluorosis has been reported. The aim of this study was to analyze the knowledge of parents and / or guardians about the use of fluoride dentifrices in children aged 12 to 71 months. One form was applied to a sample (n = 63) of parents and / or caregivers of children attended at a children's dental clinic. Respondents were asked to simulate the amount of toothpaste used in brushing their children. The database was analyzed in SPSS 22.0 software. Regarding the supervision of the brushing of their children, 49.2% (n = 31) performed the oral hygiene of their children. When asked if they had already received guidance on how to dispose the toothpaste in the brush, 52.4% (n = 33) parents and / or caregivers stated that they were never oriented. The amount of toothpaste that most parents interviewed use with their young children exceeds the amount of toothpaste recommended for preschool children. Most participants (73%, n = 46) are unaware of the toxicity of fluoride. Most parents / guardians reported supervising the child's brushing and disposing the toothpaste on the toothbrush, however the findings indicate that those responsible do not use the recommended dose of toothpaste according to the child's age. So research is needed to identify the most effective way to instruct parents and / or caregivers about controlling the dose of fluoridated toothpaste used in young children.