Cytogenetic Damage in Buccal Cells Caused by Toothpaste

Objectives. Toothpaste contains many potentially harmful ingredients, including some that can lead to serious long-term health problems. Everyday use of oral health care products has increased, highlighting the need for healthcare clinicians and consumers to be informed of the potential benefits and risks associated with these products. The aim of this study is to evaluate possible DNA damages to oral epithelial cells in participants exposed to toothpaste containing fluoride as opposed to the effects of non-fluoride toothpaste. Materials and Methods. Forty volunteers were selected among students of dental medicine and assigned into two experimental groups. Each group used regular non-fluoride toothpaste for initial two months, followed by the use of fluoride toothpaste of the same brand for the next two months. The buccal epithelial cells were sampled at baseline and 30, 60, 90 and 120 days after the beginning of the research. Chromosomal damages were analyzed by micronucleus assay.