What is High Fluoride Toothpaste?

High fluoride toothpaste is a prescription-only dental treatment containing sodium fluoride. It is available in two strengths:

• 2800ppm fluoride contains 0.619% sodium fluoride.
• 5000ppm fluoride contains 1.1% sodium fluoride.

Standard adult toothpaste usually contains approximately 1350ppm to 1500ppm fluoride. These higher-strength toothpastes are intended for people who have an increased risk of developing dental caries.

The brand and pack size supplied may vary depending on availability.

What is High Fluoride Toothpaste used for?

High fluoride toothpaste helps prevent and treat tooth decay affecting the tooth crown or exposed roots. It may be suitable for people who:

• Experience frequent tooth decay.
• Have previously had multiple fillings or cavities.
• Have exposed tooth roots or receding gums.
• Wear braces or other orthodontic appliances.
• Have a dry mouth.
• Take medicines that reduce saliva production.
• Have a medical condition or treatment that increases their risk of tooth decay.
• Have been advised to use high fluoride toothpaste by a dentist or another healthcare professional.

How does High Fluoride Toothpaste work?

Fluoride helps protect the teeth by:

• Reducing the loss of minerals from tooth enamel.
• Supporting the remineralisation and strengthening of enamel.
• Making teeth more resistant to acids produced by plaque bacteria.
• Helping protect exposed dentine and tooth roots from decay.

High fluoride toothpaste should replace your normal toothpaste while you are using it.

How to use 2800ppm Fluoride Toothpaste

Unless your dentist or prescriber tells you otherwise:

• Apply a ribbon of toothpaste to your toothbrush.
• Brush carefully and thoroughly for approximately one minute.
• Use morning and evening.
• Brush vertically from the gum towards the tip of each tooth.
• Spit out after brushing.
• Do not swallow the toothpaste.
• For the best results, do not rinse your mouth, eat or drink for 30 minutes after brushing.

How to use 5000ppm Fluoride Toothpaste

Unless your dentist or prescriber tells you otherwise:

• Apply a ribbon of toothpaste to your toothbrush.
• Brush carefully and thoroughly for approximately three minutes.
• Use three times daily, preferably after meals.
• Brush vertically from the gum towards the tip of each tooth.
• Spit out after brushing.
• Do not swallow the toothpaste.

Important safety information

Do not use high fluoride toothpaste if you are allergic to sodium fluoride or any other ingredient in the product.

Speak to your dentist, pharmacist or prescriber before use if you:

• Use fluoride tablets, drops, mouth rinses, gels, varnishes or other high-fluoride products.
• Receive fluoride from another prescribed source.
• Have difficulty swallowing.
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Have been told that you have an intolerance to any of the ingredients.

Your total fluoride intake should be considered before high fluoride toothpaste is prescribed, particularly when using the 5000ppm strength.

Use only the recommended amount and keep the toothpaste out of the sight and reach of children.

Possible side effects

Side effects are uncommon but may include:

• A burning sensation or irritation inside the mouth.
• Rare hypersensitivity or allergic reactions.

Stop using the toothpaste and seek urgent medical help if you experience swelling, difficulty breathing, a severe rash or another sign of a serious allergic reaction.

Always read the patient information leaflet supplied with your medicine because the manufacturer and ingredients may vary.