Sodium fluoride - Dental

Sodium fluoride is used to prevent tooth decay in children and adults.

Use Sodium fluoride exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not use more or less than instructed by your doctor.

This medicine is available as toothpaste, cream, and gel.

To use the toothpaste, cream, or gel, apply a thin ribbon or pea-sized amount to the teeth using a toothbrush. Brush thoroughly for a few minutes then spit it out and rinse the mouth well with water.

Do not swallow the toothpaste, cream, or gel. If you accidentally swallowed a large amount of Sodium fluoride, alert your doctor immediately.

For optimum benefit, do not eat, drink or rinse your mouth for at least 30 minutes after use.

Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.

DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.

Do not use Sodium fluoride if you ever had an allergic reaction (e.g. rashes, breathlessness, swollen eyes) to this medicine or any of its ingredients.

Sodium fluoride is available as toothpaste with various strengths. Do not give the 0.619% toothpaste to a child below 10 years old, and the 1.1% toothpaste to a child below 16 years old unless instructed to do so by the doctor.

Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before giving this medicine to a child especially those with developing teeth. Children may be more sensitive to the side effects.

Children, particularly those younger than 12 years of age, should be carefully supervised or instructed as necessary to avoid excessive use or accidental ingestion of Sodium fluoride.

Keep your appointments with your doctor. Your doctor needs to monitor your condition and check your response to the medication regularly. To prevent the build-up of fluoride in your body, your doctor may assess your total fluoride intake (e.g. from fluoridated water or salt, or other fluoride-containing drugs) before using this medicine.

Sodium fluoride may cause a burning oral sensation.

If you develop rashes, breathlessness, swollen mouth or eyes, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor immediately. These could be signs of an allergic reaction.

Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.

Inform your doctor if you are taking any medicines or supplements containing calcium, aluminium or magnesium.

Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.

Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.

Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.