Do you have small black spots on your teeth that are decaying? Or do you feel numb when you eat ice cream or drink cold water? This is a really annoying problem for many people. So as a solution to this, your dentist may have told you to use a special dental gel. Today we are talking about a dental gel called Sodium Fluoride, which is beneficial for many people.
What is this Sodium Fluoride Gel?
Simply put, this is a medicinal gel that is given to prevent tooth decay. It is sometimes also used to reduce tooth and gum sensitivity. The main ingredient in this is a mineral called fluoride.
Just like calcium is essential for strong bones, fluoride is essential for healthy teeth. When we apply this gel to our teeth, the fluoride in it combines with the enamel, the protective coating on the outside of the tooth, and strengthens it. This greatly reduces the risk of tooth decay caused by bacteria.
This is not like a regular toothpaste, this is a medicine that is used on the recommendation of a doctor. Therefore, it is very important to use it exactly as the doctor says.
Things to tell your doctor before using this medicine
Before your doctor recommends you use this gel, it's essential that you tell him some facts about your health condition. Then he can decide exactly whether it's appropriate for you to use it or not.
| Tell your doctor if you have these conditions. |
|---|
| • If you have kidney disease . |
| • If you already have stained, mottled, or pitted teeth. |
| • If you have an allergic reaction to fluoride, other medications, foods, preservatives, or dyes. |
| • If you are pregnant or expecting a baby . |
| • If you are a breastfeeding mother . |
It is very important for your safety to discuss this information with the doctor.
How exactly do you use this gel?
To get the best results, you need to know how to use it correctly. Unless your doctor has instructed you otherwise, follow these steps.
1. First, brush your teeth thoroughly with your regular toothpaste and rinse your mouth.
2. Next, apply a thin ribbon of this fluoride gel to your toothbrush or to a special mouth tray provided by your doctor.
3. Rub it on your teeth thoroughly. Leave it on for at least a minute . It's best to do this once a day, especially before going to bed at night .
4. After a minute, spit out the gel in your mouth.
5. Most importantly: Do not rinse your mouth, drink water, or eat anything else for at least 30 minutes after applying the gel. This is how the fluoride is best absorbed into the teeth.
6. Another reminder: Do not swallow this gel for any reason.
Be careful when using this with small children.
Doctors recommend using this gel for children between the ages of 6 and 16. But you should talk to your doctor about it. The most important thing is that after your child has applied the gel, they should throw it out and rinse their mouth thoroughly with water. It is not appropriate for children to go without rinsing their mouth like adults.
What are the expected side effects?
Like any medication, this one can cause minor side effects in some people, but most people don't have any problems.
| Type of side effect | Description |
|---|---|
| If you have these symptoms, see a doctor immediately. | |
| Allergic Reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. |
| Tooth discoloration | Unusual stains or spots on the teeth. |
| If these symptoms persist or are bothersome, tell your doctor. | |
| Mouth or throat discomfort | A slight burning sensation in the mouth or throat after applying the gel. |
What if the medicine is used too much (overdose)?
Imagine what you would do if you or a small child in your home accidentally swallowed too much of this gel. In such a case, do not panic, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital. Or take the person to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital. This is very important.
Another important thing: This medicine is for you only. Do not give it to anyone in your family without the advice of a doctor. Also, keep it in a safe place out of the reach of small children and pets .
Take-Home Message
- Always use this fluoride gel as directed by your doctor, and only in the amount prescribed.
- Never swallow the gel. If you are an adult, avoid eating or drinking for 30 minutes after swallowing the gel. If you are a child, rinse your mouth immediately after swallowing the gel.
- Tell your doctor about any other illnesses or allergies you have before using the medicine.
- If you notice any signs of an allergy or unusual staining on your teeth while using the gel, notify your doctor immediately.
- If you accidentally swallow too much, call the National Poisons Information Centre immediately or go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU).
- Keep this out of the reach of small children, at room temperature.
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