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 taking 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 take 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 of fluoride topical?
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.
Where can I get more information about fluoride topical?
Your pharmacist has information about fluoride topical written for health professionals that you may read.
What are the possible side effects of fluoride topical?
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these
signs of an allergic
reaction:
hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Call your doctor if you have any of the following side effects:
Less serious side effects may include:
-
stomach upset;
-
headache; or
-
weakness.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your
doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at
1-800-FDA-1088. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
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 should I avoid while taking fluoride topical?
Do not swallow fluoride topical. Spit it out after use.
What other drugs will affect fluoride topical?
It is not likely that other drugs you take orally or inject will have an effect on topically applied
fluoride. But many drugs can interact with each other. Tell your doctor about all your prescription and
over-the-counter medications, vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other
doctors. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.
What happens if I have an overdose of fluoride topical?
