Sodium Fluoride Dental Rinse

What is this medication?

SODIUM FLUORIDE (SOE dee um FLOOR ide) prevents tooth decay. It may also be used to reduce gum and tooth sensitivity. It works by making your teeth stronger. Fluoride is a mineral that plays an important role in the health of your teeth and bones.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): ACT Anti Cavity Flouride, Duraflor, Fluorinse, Listerine Smart Rinse, NaFrinse, Perfect Choice Neutral, Phos-Flur, PreviDent, PreviDent Dental, Wenthworth

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What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • Trouble swallowing
  • An unusual or allergic reaction to fluoride, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
  • Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
  • Breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

Use this medication in the mouth. Follow these instructions unless otherwise instructed by your care team: First brush the teeth well. Then measure out 2 teaspoonfuls (10 mL) of the dental rinse. Rinse around the mouth and between the teeth for one minute, then spit. Do not swallow this medication. For best results, do not eat, drink, or rinse mouth for at least 30 minutes after using.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. While this medication may be prescribed for children as young as 6 years for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

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What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medication?

Interactions are not expected.

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

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What should I watch for while using this medication?

Do not use this rinse unless you are sure you need extra fluoride. Ask your care team for advice, especially if you move to a new area where the amount of fluoride may be different.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

  • Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Change in tooth color

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

  • Irritation inside the mouth or throat

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medication after the expiration date.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

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Note: Introduction and Additional Common Questions written and medically approved by Cleveland Clinic professionals.

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