Assessing the Knowledge of Carcinogenic Potential of Triclosan based Dentifrice and Mouthwash among Dental Students and Practitioners – A Survey.

Abstract

Background: Triclosan is an antimicrobial agent that is widely used in consumer products. Triclosan has been readily absorbed into human skin and oral mucosa and found to be retained in the body for longer periods causing carcinogenic effects. This ingredient is widely used in dentifrices and mouthwashes, a daily consumer product which facilitates the need for this study.

Aim: The main aim of the study is to assess the knowledge about the carcinogenic potential of triclosan among the dental professionals

Materials and methods: A descriptive cross sectional survey was conducted among dental professionals.A total of 186 participants participated in the knowledge assessment survey  and a questionnaire containing 16 questions was prepared and distributed online using Google survey forms and responses were collected, tabulated in excel and statistically analyzed using SPSS. The knowledge assessment was evaluated depending on the level of education.

Results: The results of the study showed that the upcoming professionals, the first years and the second years are more aware of the chemical ingredient triclosan than an intern or a dental practitioner. 37.63% of participants were in the poor category,34.41% of participants were in the moderate category and 27.96% were in the good category.

Conclusion: This study educates the triclosan’s ill effects from toothpastes and mouthwashes which became a mandatory personal care product in daily life and then implements this knowledge as awareness to the general public.