SODIUM FLUORIDE GEL - DENTAL
Phonetic Pronunciation: (SO-dee-um FLOOR-ide)
Information last revised May 2010
Uses:
This medication is used to prevent cavities. It makes teeth stronger and more resistant to decay caused by acid and bacteria. This medication is not recommended for children younger than 6 years unless directed by the dentist/doctor.
Missed Dose
If you miss an appointment to have the medication applied, contact your dentist immediately for a new appointment.
How To Use
Depending on the product, this medication is applied onto the teeth, either with a mouth tray or a small brush/swab, by a dental professional. The gel should be left on for the prescribed amount of time (usually 1 to 4 minutes, depending on the product). Spit out the medication after use. Do not swallow. Children should rinse their mouths thoroughly right away. Watch children during treatment and rinsing to make sure they do not swallow the medication or rinse water. For best results in adults, do not rinse your mouth, eat, or drink for at least 30 minutes after use. Dosage and frequency of application is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. This medication is usually applied every 6 to 12 months or as directed by your dentist. Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, mark the days on the calendar when you need to receive the medication.
Drug Interactions
Your dentist may already be aware of any possible drug interactions and may be monitoring you for them. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicine before checking with your dentist, doctor, or pharmacist first. Before receiving this medication, tell your dentist of all prescription and nonprescription/herbal products you may use, especially: other fluoride products (e.g., tablets, creams), other dental products. This document does not contain all possible interactions. Therefore, before using this product, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all the products you use. Keep a list of all your medications with you, and share the list with your doctor and pharmacist.
Notes
Use of this medication does not replace good dental habits. Continue to brush and floss your teeth regularly as directed by your dentist, and have regular dental checkups.
Overdose
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. US residents can call the US National Poison Hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center. Symptoms of overdose may include: burning in the mouth, sore tongue, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, increased saliva, stomach pain/cramping, muscle weakness, shaking, seizures.
Precautions
Before receiving sodium fluoride, tell your dentist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details. Before using this medication, tell your dentist your medical history, especially of: mouth problems (e.g., sores, mucositis). Children may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially if this medication is swallowed. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before using this medication. This medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Storage
Store at room temperature between 68-77 degrees F (20-25 degrees C) away from heat. Keep all medicines away from children and pets. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company for more details about how to safely discard your product.
Side Effects
Remember that your dentist has prescribed this medicine because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. Tell your doctor/dentist immediately if your teeth become stained or pitted. This is often a result of too much fluoride. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing. This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor/dentist or pharmacist. In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.
The information contained in the First DataBank databases is intended to supplement the knowledge of physicians, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals regarding drug therapy problems and patient counselling information. This information is advisory only and is not intended to replace sound clinical judgment in the delivery of healthcare services. First DataBank disclaims all warranties, whether expressed or implied, including any warranty as to the quality, accuracy, and suitability of this information for any purpose.
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