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.
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