Recommendations of the brazilian ministry of health for the use of fluoride dentifrices

Abstract

Objective: This paper aims to discuss the contextual and scientific bases that guide the recommendation of the Ministry of Health for use of fluoridated toothpaste as a population public health measure, especially for children, in Brazil.x Methods: Based on the recommendation of the use of fluoridated toothpaste expressed in a publication of the Ministry of Health and on the selected literature, aimed to contextualize ethical, informational and scientific aspects that justify such recommendation. Results: The contextual and scientific analysis justifies the recommendation of the use of fluoridated toothpaste, including during the early childhood, as an important public health measure in Brazil. Conclusion: In order to guarantee the effectiveness and safety of the measure, it is important to disseminate to the public clear and evidence-based information about fluoridated toothpaste use. Measures of health, sanitation, and environmental surveillance should ensure the benefits of the use of fluoridated toothpaste for the entire population, and especially for children. It is also important to guarantee access to the product and information about its safe use with equity.