Do you feel like your teeth are going numb when you drink cold water or eat a piece of ice cream? Or are you afraid of tooth decay? A special medicine that doctors recommend to help with things like this is called Stannous Fluoride. This usually comes in the form of a mouth rinse. Today, we will talk about this in detail, very simply.
What is Stannous Fluoride?
Simply put, it's like a shield that protects your teeth. Stannous fluoride is a type of mineral called fluoride. This fluoride is very important for the health of our teeth and bones.
This medicine does two main things:
1. Prevents tooth decay: This strengthens your teeth. That is, it strengthens the outermost layer of the tooth, the part we call enamel, and reduces the damage caused by bacteria.
2. Reduces tooth sensitivity: Some people have extremely sensitive teeth. This means that their teeth become numb when they eat or drink hot or cold things. This medicine helps reduce that sensitivity.
Things to tell your doctor before use
Before your doctor prescribes this medicine, he or she will need to have a complete understanding of your health condition. Therefore, if you have any of the conditions listed below, be sure to tell your doctor.
- If you have artificial teeth made of porcelain or ceramic .
- If you have an allergic reaction to this stannous fluoride, any other medicine, food, or food dyes.
- If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding.
By telling you these things in advance, it will be easier for the doctor to decide whether this medication is right for you or not, or whether you should go for another option.
How should I use this?
How you use this is very important. To get the best results, follow these instructions exactly.
Most importantly: This medicine is for mouthwash only. DO NOT SWALLOW it for any reason.
1. Follow the instructions: Use the medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor, or according to the instructions on the label of the medicine bottle.
2. The 30-Minute Rule: For best results, do not eat, drink, or rinse your mouth with water for at least 30 minutes after gargling this medicine. This gives the medicine a chance to fully absorb into your teeth.
3. Don't overdo it: Don't use it more often than your doctor tells you to. Doing so won't give you more results, but it can cause side effects.
4. If given to children: Doctors may recommend this in some special cases for children over the age of 6. However, be sure to talk to your doctor about it and only give it to your child on his or her advice .
5. Overdose: If you think you have taken too much or accidentally swallowed the medicine, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital or go to the Emergency Department (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
What to do if you miss a dose?
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, 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.
Side effects and things to be aware of
Like all medications, this one can have some side effects. There are also a few things to be aware of when using it.
| Side effect | Description and what to do |
|---|---|
| Things to tell your doctor immediately | |
| Allergic reactions | If you notice any symptoms such as skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, tell your doctor immediately. |
| Tooth discoloration | Sometimes, you may notice light spots on your teeth. If you notice anything like this, talk to your doctor. |
| Things that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Mouth or throat discomfort | You may feel a slight burning or stinging sensation in your mouth or throat. This usually goes away after a few days. But if it persists or is bothersome, tell your doctor. |
Other things to consider
- Other medications: There are generally no reported major interactions between this medication and other medications. However, it is safest to tell your doctor about all medications you are taking (including vitamins, herbal remedies, and supplements).
- Effect on enamel: If used incorrectly for a long time, daily, it can damage the outer covering of the tooth called enamel. Therefore, use it only for the time and in the amount prescribed by your doctor.
- Storage: Keep this medicine out of the reach of children and pets . It is best to store it at room temperature (between 20-25 degrees Celsius). After use, close the cap tightly. Discard expired medicine.
Take-Home Message
- Stannous Fluoride is a medicine that helps control tooth decay and tooth sensitivity and should be used on the recommendation of a doctor.
- This is for mouthwash only. Never swallow. If swallowed by mistake, go to the National Poison Information Center or an ETU immediately.
- Avoid eating or drinking for 30 minutes after use.
- If you notice any allergic symptoms (skin rash, swelling) or tooth discoloration, tell your doctor immediately.
- Feel free to talk to your doctor about any questions or concerns you may have.
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