The Nigerian Dental Association (NDA) has raised alarm over the spread of misleading oral health information on social media, particularly claims linking the coloured marks at the base of toothpaste tubes to their chemical composition and safety.
In a statement signed by President Nigerian Dental Association, Dr. Emedom M. Elias; Dr. Franklin Abhulimen Secretary General, NDA, Dr. Victor Nwabudike Chairman Ethics and Disciplinary Committee, the NDA urged members of the public to verify oral health information with regard to registered professionals and to disregard claims made by individuals who falsely present themselves as dental experts online.
According to the association, a recent viral video featured an individual who identified himself as a ‘doctor’ without providing proof of certification or registration with the NDA.
The individual claimed that toothpaste tubes with green marks are “natural and safe”, while those with blue, red or black marks are harmful.
The statement read in part, “The NDA hereby state unequivocally that this information is false, misleading and not supported by any clinical, scientific or regulatory evidence.
“For the avoidance of doubt, the small square or rectangular marks at the sealed end of toothpaste tubes are known in manufacturing as ” Eye Marks ” or “Colour Registration”, used by automated packaging machines to detect where the tubes should be cut and sealed during production.
“The marks also ensure proper alignment during packaging and guide sensors in high-speed production lines.
“These coloured marks have nothing to do with the ingredients or constituents of the toothpaste. They also do not determine the safety of toothpaste and not a yardstick to establish whether a product is chemical or natural.
“In a related development, a Clergyman previously, through a similar viral video, warned the public against the use of toothpastes containing fluoride.
“He claimed that Fluoride in toothpastes can lead to cancer in humans. The list of these oral health misconceptions on social media is endless and poses grave danger to the general public.
“Fluoride and indeed every other constituents of toothpastes are meticulously regulated, to ensure compliance with the recommended concentrations and must meet safety standards set by relevant health authorities and agencies before they are approved for public use.”
(Daily Trust)
