Micro and macroscopic toothbrush analysis offered to child population in Ceara’s counties

Abstract

The most effective way to promote oral hygiene and prevent oral diseases is toothbrushing, which must be carried out in accordance with the guidelines of the oral health team and using an appropriate toothbrush. A descriptive and analytical study was carried out among counties that make up the 12th Health Regional having the objective of analyzing the characteristics of toothbrushes made available by counties in Ceara to the child population. The sample consisted of 30 toothbrushes that were randomly analyzed in relation to the characteristics of the active part of the brush, handle, tufts, and bristles. Data were tabulated and analyzed using descriptive statistics. Data analysis identified that the analyzed toothbrushes had more than one macroscopic characteristic in disagreement with the legislation and at least one microscopic characteristic harmful to oral health. We conclude that the counties which participated in the study needed to adapt toothbrushes; so that they can be instruments for preventing oral diseases and promoting children's health, associated with collective actions to improve oral health education. Future studies may investigate the possible association between the quality of toothbrushes and oral health status.