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.
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.
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.
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.
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 eat, drink, or rinse your mouth for 30 minutes after using fluoride topical.
There are no other restrictions on food, beverages, or activities while using fluoride topical, unless your dentist or doctor directs otherwise.
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.
Seek emergency medical attention.
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.