Unraveling the Increased Preferences for Herbal Toothpastes: A Survey-based Study in India

Abstract

Background: Herbal toothpastes have gained immense popularity in India in recent times with a significant rise in number of herbal toothpaste users. This study aimed to understand the factors that motivated this change from nonherbal toothpastes to herbal toothpastes. Methods: Four hundred and eighty-two individuals visiting the Department of Dentistry for dental consultations, who had changed their toothpaste in last 5 years, filled a structured questionnaire seeking details of the factors or complaints which led to their change of toothpaste, satisfaction level with changed toothpaste, and their opinion about herbal and nonherbal toothpaste. The change of toothpastes was divided into four categories: nonherbal to herbal, nonherbal to nonherbal, herbal to nonherbal, and herbal to herbal. The data obtained were analyzed to assess the relationship between the category of toothpaste change and socioeconomic and psychosocial factors using Chi-square tests, Spearman's correlation, and multiple regression tests. Results: 49.79% of the participants had shifted their toothpaste from nonherbal to herbal in last 5 years. Sensitivity (43.75%) and yellowness of teeth (49.25%) were the most cited reasons for change of toothpaste by participants in all categories. Tooth sensitivity, cost, advertisement, taste, and dental advice significantly influenced the change from one type of toothpaste to another. No significant association was found between the type of toothpaste shift and improvement in symptoms. Conclusion: Though a large number of users shifted to herbal toothpastes, the change was not associated with a significant difference from other types of toothpastes, in terms of improvement of symptoms. Clinical significance: This study highlights the tendency of Indian population to shift their toothpaste from nonherbal to herbal, in hope of getting relief from problems like yellow teeth and tooth sensitivity. Such change, however, may not necessarily lead to resolution of their problem and can never be a substitute to professional consultation.