Toothpast Influence on Brushing Among Federal University of Minas Gerais Dental School Patients

  • Lilian Nádia Almeida da Silva Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais - UFMG
  • Flávio de Freitas Mattos Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais - UFMG

Abstract

The aim of this study was to verify the influence of flavorings found in toothpastes on the motivation for oral hygiene, especially on the time spent on its performance. Methods: 100 individuals who were under treatment at the Dental School of the Federal University of Minas Gerais, from both genders, took part in the study. They were split into two groups. Group A brushed their teeth with a commercial brand of toothpaste and group B, with a specially prepared toothpaste without flavorings. Time spent on brushing was registered for both groups. In a second moment, toothpastes were swapped between the groups and group A brushed with the one without flavorings while group B used the commercial brand. Time spent on brushing was registered again. A questionnaire on oral health was also applied for both groups. Results and conclusion: There was some influence of the toothpaste flavoring mainly among men, increasing the time spent on brushing.

Author Biographies

Lilian Nádia Almeida da Silva, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais - UFMG
Bolsista de iniciação científica do Departamento de Odontologia Social e Preventiva da Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais - UFMG. E-mail: lilianadia@yahoo.com
Flávio de Freitas Mattos, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais - UFMG
Docente adjunto do Departamento de Odontologia Social e Preventiva da Faculdade de Odontologia da Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais - UFMG. E-mail: f.f.mattos@uol.com.br
Published
2009-09-14
Section
Artigos Originais