Many of us have seen posters in dental offices advertising one brand of mouth rinse while a different brand was included in the goody bag. What affect do you think statistics has on the decision to include a specific brand in the goody bag? Does the dentist think there is “no statistically significant difference” between the brands or might the dentist include what the manufacturer’s representative may have given the dentist?

What are some of the positive and negative outcomes of studies about which you may read regarding toothpaste or mouth wash. What questions do you have about those studies that may affect whether you believe the results?