AIM: This study was conducted to determine if there was an increase in the urinary excretion of fluoride, after the use of fluoride mouth rinses in children.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: The sample consisted of 58 children aged 5-8 years, randomly selected, residents in non-fluoridated water areas. Urine samples were collected prior to mouthwash and also 2 hours after use. The control sample, which received no treatment, consisted of 16 children of equivalent age and from the same community. Urinary excretion of fluoride was analysed by determining the pH, creatinine, F- ion and fluoride (mg)/creatinine (g) (F/Cr) ratio in urine. Results In the studied sample, the mean F/Cr ratio before fluoride mouth rinse was 0.26 mg/g and it rose to 1.58 mg/g 2 hours after mouth rinse. This difference of 1.33 mg/g was statistically highly significant (p<.001). In the control group no significant changes occurred. The average 2 hours afterward F/Cr ratios were 0.29 and 0.27 respectively (p=0.426).

CONCLUSION: After the use of a fluoride mouthwash, in children, there is a statistically significant increase of fluoride ion in urine, which can be attributed to the application of this product.