1995 Volume 45 Issue 2 Pages 175-183
A questionnaire survey on the tooth-brushing habits, the use of fluoride dentifrice, and the user's consciousnesses of it was conducted in seven different age groups to promote the spread of fluoride dentifrice in Japan. In four groups of one-and-a-half-year olds to elementary school children, the rate of children using dentifrice to brush their teeth was 1.7〜49.2%, and users of fluoride dentifrice among them were 50〜90%. In three adult groups, the rate of users of fluoride dentifrice was comparatively small (34〜47%). There were some (8〜43%) dentifrice users who selected their dentifrices for fluoride medicinal properties. This trend was observed more strongly in groups of adults than in children. In addition, there was also a small percentage (13〜45%) of fluoride dentifrice users who selected their dentifrices for the fluoride. It is strange that there were very small part of non-fluoride dentifrice users who selected their dentifrices for the fluoride. It is concluded that the following strategies are necessary for the promotion of fluoride dentifrices. 1. Education on the usefulness of fluoride dentifrice is necessary for everyone including adults. 2. Dentifrice manufacturers should clearly label their products "fluoride dentifrice" and fluoridate more dentifrices for adults. 3. Japanese dental health organizations should recomend fluoride dentifrices.
