2021 Volume 71 Issue 2 Pages 81-87
In this study, we examined factors related to the shape of the toothpaste tube nozzle and associated properties, in order to clarify the appropriate amount of fluoride-containing toothpaste. The opening of the nozzle and weight per 1 cm smear of 31 types of dentist-prescribed fluoride toothpastes were measured. Smeared weights were measured by 6 examiners, subsequently, the average values were taken as weight per 1cm, and the coefficient of variation (CV) and sampling error (%) were determined. To assess statistical dispersion of the weights, one-way analysis of variance and Bonferroni correction for multiple comparisons were performed, and the results of successive comparisons of each dentifrice were taken as significant differences. Furthermore, single correlation and multiple regression analyses were performed on the nozzle opening, standard weight, smeared weight, specific gravity, viscosity, coefficient of variation, sampling error (%), significant difference in each dentifrice, and relevance. As a result of the single correlation analysis, the standard and smeared weights, nozzle opening and specific gravity, smeared weight and specific gravity, smeared weight and viscosity, viscosity and coefficient of variation, standard weight and sampling error (%), smeared weight and sampling error (%), viscosity and sampling error (%), coefficient of variation and sampling error (%), standard weight and specific gravity, standard weight and viscosity, and standard weight and significant difference showed a correlation (p<0.05). Multiple regression analysis data demonstrated that the nozzle opening, specific gravity, coefficient of variation, and viscosity showed significant correlations (p<0.05).
Therefore, in order to use an appropriate amount of fluoride toothpaste, it is necessary to specify the standard weight pertaining to 1cm of smear.
