Evaluation of commercial characteristics of toothbrushes available in Brazil

Authors

  • Natália Bueno Feitosa Faculdade de Odontologia da UFMG
  • Carolina Castro Martins Faculdade de Odontologia da UFMG
  • Loliza Luiz Figueiredo Chalub Faculdade de Odontologia da UFMG
  • Miriam Pimenta Parreira Vale Faculdade de Odontologia da UFMG
  • Saul Martins Paiva Faculdade de Odontologia da UFMG

Keywords:

Toothbrushing, strategies, dental pediatrics, dental hygiene, oral hygiene products

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the commercial characteristics of 15 dental toothbrushes used by children. Methods: Toothbrushes were purchased in different locations of Belo Horizonte city, MG. Collected data included: manufacturer, instructions for use, indication of age, expiration date, decorative characters, quality control stamp by the Brazilian Dental Association (ABO), price, handle material, bristle length (mm), color, and presence of bristles with color change. Results: Toothbrushes displayed information to change toothbrush every three months (87%), instructions for use (73%), ABO stamp (47%), decorative characters (60%), and 10mmlength bristles (73%). Prices varied from R$1,00 to R$8,55. Conclusion: The manufacturers used commercial appeal strategies to attract consumers and motivate sales. However, many toothbrushes did not show important information such as the ABO stamp, instructions for use and age recommendation. The dentist should motivate and instruct patients for an ideal oral hygiene protocol. Key words: Toothbrushing; strategies; dental pediatrics; dental hygiene; oral hygiene products

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Published

2008-06-22

Issue

Vol. 23 No. 1 (2008)

Section

Original Article

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