Fluoride-containing mouthrinses in three European countries

The caries-preventive effect of fluoride is well known. The widespread use of fluoride-containing toothpastes and mouthrinses has been recommended to reduce dental caries. Many kinds of fluoride containing toothpastes are available in Japan. However, only two kinds of mouthrinses which contain fluoride are comically available. The aim of this study was to investigate the current status of fluoride-containing mouthrinses on the market in three European countries. Fluoride-containing mouthrinses were purchased from retail outlets in Athens, Amsterdam and Geneva. The labels of ingredients were studied to determine the type and concentration of fluoride. Most of the mouthrinses contained sodium fluoride (90%); some contained stannous fluoride (5%) or potassium fluoride (7%). The concentrations of fluoride ranged from 100 ppm to 500 ppm.