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 topical may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication
guide.
Use fluoride topical exactly as directed by your dentist or doctor, or follow the directions
on the prescription bottle. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse,
dentist, or doctor to explain them to you.
Use the fluoride rinse, gel, or pastes immediately after brushing or flossing, just prior to
sleep to obtain the maximum effect from fluoride topical, unless otherwise directed by your
doctor.
Do not eat, drink, or rinse your mouth for 30 minutes after using fluoride topical.
Do not swallow fluoride topical. Spit it out after use.
Store fluoride topical at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
Stop using fluoride topical and seek emergency medical attention if you experience a
rare allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue,
or face; or hives).
Uncommonly, discoloration or mottling of tooth enamel has been reported with long-term
use and/or large doses of fluoride topical. Notify your dentist or doctor if you notice changes in
the appearance of your teeth.
Other, less serious side effects have also occurred. Continue to use fluoride topical and
notify your dentist or doctor if you experience
stomach upset;
headache; or
weakness.
Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your
dentist and doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.
It is not known whether fluoride topical will interact with other medicines. Talk to your
dentist, doctor, and pharmacist before taking any other prescription or over-the-counter
medicines or herbal/health supplements.
Symptoms of a fluoride topical overdose include nausea; vomiting; abdominal pain;
diarrhea; increased salivation or drooling; numbness, tingling, or loss of feeling in a body part;
painful muscle stiffness; seizures; and possibly death with large overdoses.
Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next
dose, skip the missed dose and use only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not use a double
dose of fluoride topical unless your dentist or doctor directs otherwise.
Fluoride topical should not be used if the level of fluoride topical in the drinking
water is greater than 0.7 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 require special monitoring
during treatment.
If you have gum disease, some forms of fluoride topical may be irritating to the gums.
Talk to your dentist or doctor if you notice oral irritation.
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 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. The 1 mg/5
mL strength rinse is not recommended for use as a supplement by children younger than 6 years
of age.
Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share
your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed
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The information contained herein is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions,
or adverse effects. If you have questions about the drugs you are taking, check with your doctor, nurse or pharmacist.
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