ASTM E3288-22

5.1?The approaches to the evaluation of toothbrushes and toothpaste recommended in this guide can be used to assess the sensory characteristics of toothpaste in use and after use (or a series of uses). This guide is meant to address the evaluation of standalone toothbrush and toothpaste products and does not address packaging, product/package interaction, dispensing, or overall clinical effect or benefit of the product. The procedures outlined in this guide are to be used by assessors that have been specifically screened for sensory and descriptive ability and trained in the evaluation of toothbrushes or toothpaste or both. The procedures described in this guide can be used to guide product development within a manufacturer and communicate information regarding the product to the consumer through the media or on product packaging.

5.2?Additionally, language and ideas from two additional ASTM International sensory guides (Guides E1490 and E2082) as well as the Lexicon for Sensory Evaluation: Aroma, Flavor, Texture, and Appearance (DS72-2ND)4 are used throughout this guide.

1.1?This guide provides guidelines for the selection and training of expert assessors for the sensory evaluation of toothpaste and toothbrushes as well as a basic framework for the sensory evaluation of the same. Sensory evaluation of toothpaste and toothbrushes can be used to define the sensory attributes of the products and then to measure those attributes quantitatively for the purposes of new product development, product optimization, competitive benchmarking, and claims substantiation.

1.2?A general framework for both toothpaste and toothbrush descriptive analysis is provided to guide the reader in the design and execution (including sample preparation and presentation, facility and testing environment, and specific evaluation protocols) for such evaluations.

1.3?This guide provides suggested protocols and approaches to the evaluation of the indicated products/samples and in no way excludes any alternate approaches that may be effective in providing such perceptual evaluations.

1.4?This guide does not address other oral care products including, but not limited to, whitening agents, oral rinses, mouthwashes, dental flosses, denture adhesive, floss picks, or other oral care products.

1.5?This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.6?This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.