fluoride topical Health Article

Generic name(s):

fluoride topical

Brand name(s):

ACT Fluoride Rinse, Control Rx, Denta 5000 Plus, Dentagel, Ethedent, Fluoridex, Fluoridex Whitening, Fluorigard, Fluorinse, Gel-Kam, Gel-Kam Dental Therapy Pak, Gel-Kam Dentinbloc, Gel-Kam Sensitivity Therapy, Nafrinse Solution, Neutracare Gel, Neutral Sodium Fluoride Rinse, Omnii Gel, Omnii Gel Just For Kids, Oral B Anti-Cavity, Perfect Choice, Perio Med, Phos-Flur, Prevident, Prevident 500 Plus Boost, Prevident 5000 Plus, Prevident Dental Rinse, SF, SF 5000 Plus, Stop, Thera-Flur-N

What is the most important information I should know about fluoride topical?

Fluoride topical should not be used if the level of fluoride topical in the drinking water is greater than 0.7 parts per million (ppm).

Before using fluoride topical, tell your dentist and doctor if you are on a low salt or a salt free diet. You may not be able to use fluoride topical, or you may need special tests while you are using it.

Do not eat, drink, or rinse your mouth for 30 minutes after using a fluoride topical. Do not swallow fluoride topical. Spit it out after use. Do not allow a child to swallow fluoride topical or serious overdose symptoms could result.

Overdose symptoms may result if you swallow large amounts of fluoride while using it.

What is fluoride topical?

Fluoride is a substance that strengthens tooth enamel. This helps to prevent dental cavities.

Fluoride topical is used as a medication to prevent tooth decay in patients that have a low level of fluoride topical in their drinking water. Fluoride topical is also used to prevent tooth decay in patients who undergo radiation of the head and/or neck, which may cause dryness of the mouth and an increased incidence of tooth decay.

Fluoride may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using fluoride topical?

Fluoride topical should not be used if the level of fluoride topical in the drinking water is greater than 0.7 parts per million (ppm).

Before using fluoride topical, tell your dentist and doctor if you are on a low salt or a salt free diet. You may not be able to use fluoride topical, or you may need special tests while you are using it.

If you have gum disease, some forms of fluoride topical may be irritating to your gums. Talk to your dentist or doctor if you have bothersome mouth irritation while using fluoride topical.

Talk to your doctor and dentist before using fluoride topical if you are pregnant. Talk to your doctor and dentist before using fluoride topical if you are breast-feeding. The use of fluoride is particularly important in children to protect against tooth decay. The American Dental Association's Council on Dental Therapeutics recommends the use of fluoride by children up to 13 years of age. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends fluoride supplementation by children until the age of 16 years of age. Do not allow a child to swallow fluoride topical or serious overdose symptoms could result.

How should I use fluoride topical?

Use this medication exactly as directed on the label, or as it was prescribed by your dentist or doctor. Do not use it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Fluoride topical should be used immediately after brushing or flossing your teeth. For best results, use the medication just before bedtime, unless your doctor tells you otherwise.

Swish this medication in your mouth without swallowing. Then spit it out.

Do not eat, drink, or rinse your mouth for 30 minutes after using fluoride topical. Store fluoride topical at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to use the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.