Use and knowledge of fluoride toothpaste by university students

Introduction: Dramatic decline in the prevalence of dental caries and severity of dental caries is attributed to wide availability of fluoride toothpaste and other sources. The most effective method to prevent caries is the regular use of fluoride toothpaste. The aim of this study was to evaluate self-care routines in a population by identifying knowledge, attitudes and behavior relating to fluoride toothpaste and tooth brushing habits. Materials and methods: Cross-sectional study was conducted where self completed anonymous questionnaire was distributed to final year Medical and Pharmacy students in AIMST University. Results: A total of 129 students from Medicine and Pharmacy have completed the survey. 71.3% of students brushed their teeth twice a day. The percentage of medical and pharmacy students who actually used fluoride tooth paste were 91.9% and 74.6% respectively. 33% of students used full head of toothbrush quantity of toothpaste. 79% confirmed the caries preventive action of fluoride. 76% believed that fluoride can strengthen resistance of tooth surface to caries and fluoride is harmful when the concentration is in excess. Conclusion: Compared to medical students pharmacy students usage of fluoride toothpaste was less. The student population seems to have embraced regular tooth brushing with fluoride toothpaste to a large extent. However, regarding techniques for using fluoride toothpaste effectively, there was a great potential for improvement, especially among university students. The use and knowledge levels were similar to Beijing study. Keywords: flouride, tooth paste, knowledge, students