sodium fluoride gel - dental

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

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.

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.

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.

PRECAUTIONS: Before receiving sodium fluoride, tell your dentist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies.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.

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.

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.

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.

MISSED DOSE: If you miss an appointment to have the medication applied, contact your dentist immediately for a new appointment.

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.

SLIDESHOW

Mouth Problems: TMJ, Canker Sores, Painful Gums and More See Slideshow