Does your child often get cavities? Or has the doctor told you that their teeth are not strong enough? Sometimes, doctors recommend a special type of tablet in such cases. That type of tablet, namely Sodium Fluoride, is what we are going to talk about today. This is something that helps a lot in preventing tooth decay. Let's see how to use it exactly and what things to be careful about.
What is Fluoride?
Simply put, fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that is essential for the health of our teeth and bones. Just as our bodies need calcium, these sodium fluoride tablets help prevent the depletion of fluoride levels in our bodies and prevent tooth decay, or cavities.
How does it work? The fluoride in these tablets strengthens the enamel of your teeth. This helps them resist the acids produced by bacteria. This reduces the risk of tooth decay. This is especially important for children when their teeth are still growing.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
Before your doctor prescribes this medicine for you, it is very important to know your complete medical history. If any of the conditions listed in the table below apply to you, be sure to tell your doctor.
| The situation that concerns you | Why should you inform the doctor? |
|---|---|
| The presence of fluoride in the water you drink | In some areas, fluoride is added to tap water. If this happens, the amount of fluoride from the tablets can add to the body's fluoride intake. |
| Having stomach or intestinal diseases | When there are diseases of the digestive system, problems may arise in the body absorbing medication. |
| Allergy to fluoride, tartrazine, or other substances | If you are allergic to fluoride or anything else in the medicine, it can cause a dangerous reaction. |
| Being pregnant or trying to get pregnant | It is mandatory to seek medical advice before taking any medication during pregnancy. |
| Breastfeeding the baby | Some medications taken by the mother can pass to the baby through breast milk, so it is important to inform the doctor about this. |
How exactly do you use this type of pill?
The method of using this is very simple, but it is very important to follow the instructions exactly.
- These tablets should be taken orally. Chew them well or let them dissolve completely in your mouth.
- The most important thing is that the best time to take this is at night, after you've brushed your teeth thoroughly, because that gives the fluoride a chance to stay on your teeth overnight and work well.
- Do not eat or drink any dairy products such as milk, yogurt, or cheese for one hour after taking this pill. Also, do not take anything containing calcium during this time. Calcium reduces the absorption of fluoride into the body.
- Take the prescribed amount, at the prescribed time, as prescribed by your doctor. Do not increase or decrease the dosage as you feel like.
- If given to children: This can be recommended for some children as young as 6 months of age. However, only a doctor can decide. Therefore, never give this to children without medical advice.
What to do if you accidentally drink too much? (Overdosage)
If you think you or your child may have taken too much of this medicine, immediately go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital .
Don't forget, the doctor prescribed this medicine only for you. Do not share it with others.
What to do if you miss a dose of medication?
Imagine that you forgot to take your medicine. If that happens, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take a double dose to make up for a missed dose.
Other things that may interact with this medicine
Some medications and foods can react with fluoride and reduce its effectiveness, so be especially careful with the following.
| What can collide | How to take care |
|---|---|
| Antacids - Medicines for stomach ulcers | These contain calcium, aluminum, and magnesium, which reduce fluoride absorption. Leave at least a 2-hour gap between them. |
| Calcium supplements | Avoid taking calcium tablets at the same time as fluoride tablets. Leave at least 2 hours between them. |
| Dairy products | Avoid milk or dairy products for one hour after taking the fluoride pill. |
| Magnesium salts | These can also interfere with the effectiveness of fluoride. Consult your doctor. |
This list is not complete, so be sure to tell your doctor about every medication, vitamin, and traditional medicine you are taking.
What are the possible side effects?
Most people do not experience any major side effects from this medication, but it is important to be aware of the possible side effects.
| If you have these symptoms, see your doctor immediately. | |
|---|---|
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, difficulty breathing. |
| Tooth discoloration | White streaks or spots on the teeth (Dental Fluorosis). This is usually caused by excessive fluoride intake. |
| Fluoride toxicity | Severe stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, feeling unusually tired or weak. |
If you experience any other unusual symptoms not mentioned in this list, talk to your doctor about them as well.
How should you store your medicine?
- Keep it in a safe place out of reach of children and pets.
- Store at room temperature (between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius). Keep away from excessive heat and moisture.
- Keep the bottle cap tightly closed.
- Discard any medicine left after the expiration date.
Take-Home Message
- Sodium fluoride tablets should only be taken if recommended by a doctor or dentist.
- The best time to take this pill is at night after brushing your teeth.
- Do not eat milk or dairy products for one hour after taking the pill.
- If you are taking antacids or calcium tablets, leave at least 2 hours between taking the fluoride tablet.
- If you accidentally take too much, call a hospital emergency room (ETU) or the National Poisons Information Center immediately.
- If you experience a severe side effect (allergy, severe stomach pain), see a doctor immediately.
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