Dental Association Accuses Government of Negligence Over Toothpaste Quality and Distribution

Kathmandu. The Nepal Dental Science Hygienists Association has accused the government of extreme negligence regarding the quality and distribution of toothpaste available in the market. The association demanded immediate action, stating that medicated toothpastes, which should only be used upon a doctor's recommendation, are being openly sold in supermarkets.

Association President Michael Devkota, in a statement issued on Thursday, mentioned that despite urging the Ministry and the Department of Drug Administration to test the quality of toothpastes since 2079 BS, no action has been taken. He accused the state of not being serious about the oral and overall health of the public. The association expressed anger that regulatory bodies have failed to establish any standards even as questions about toothpaste quality arise in various media outlets.

The statement seriously highlighted the issue of medicated toothpastes, which should only be sold upon the recommendation of registered dental professionals, being openly displayed in supermarkets like Bhatbhateni. Such toothpastes should not be used for more than 4 weeks, and although the companies themselves write warnings on the packaging to exercise caution, the general public is using them for extended periods due to lack of awareness. 

The association claims that the uncontrolled use of such toothpastes without a doctor's advice is seriously affecting public health.

The association has demanded that the government immediately test the quality of toothpastes in the market and implement standards. Furthermore, the association strongly demanded monitoring and bringing the open sales and distribution, which violate standards and compromise public health, under the legal framework.