What is APF Gel (Fluoride Topical)?

Fluoride is a substance that strengthens tooth enamel. This helps to prevent dental cavities.

Fluoride topical is used as a medication to prevent tooth decay in patients that have a low level of fluoride topical in their drinking water. Fluoride topical is also used to prevent tooth decay in patients who undergo radiation of the head and/or neck, which may cause dryness of the mouth and an increased incidence of tooth decay.

Fluoride may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking APF Gel (Fluoride Topical)?

Fluoride topical should not be used if the level of fluoride in the drinking water is greater than 0.7 parts per million (ppm).

Before using fluoride topical, tell your dentist and doctor if you are on a low salt or a salt free diet. You may not be able to use fluoride topical, or you may need special tests while you are using it.

If you have gum disease, some forms of fluoride topical may be irritating to your gums. Talk to your dentist or doctor if you have bothersome mouth irritation while using fluoride topical.

Talk to your doctor and dentist before using fluoride topical if you are pregnant.

Talk to your doctor and dentist before using fluoride topical if you are breast-feeding.

The use of fluoride is particularly important in children to protect against tooth decay. The American Dental Association’s Council on Dental Therapeutics recommends the use of fluoride by children up to 13 years of age. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends fluoride supplementation in children until the age of 16 years old.

Do not allow a child to swallow fluoride topical or serious overdose symptoms could result.

APF Gel Side Effects

What are the possible side effects of APF Gel (Fluoride Topical)?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor if you have any of the following side effects:

• discolored teeth
• weakened tooth enamel; or
• any changes in the appearance of your teeth

Less serious side effects may include:

• stomach upset
• headache; or
• weakness

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

APF Gel Interactions

What other drugs affect APF Gel (Fluoride Topical)?

It is not likely that other drugs you take orally or inject will have an effect on topically applied fluoride. But many drugs can interact with each other. Tell your doctor about all your prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.

What should I avoid while taking APF Gel (Fluoride Topical)?

Do not swallow fluoride topical. Spit it out after use.

APF Gel Dosage

How should I take APF Gel (Fluoride Topical)?

Use this medication exactly as directed on the label, or as it was prescribed by your dentist or doctor. Do not use it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Fluoride topical should be used immediately after brushing or flossing your teeth. For best results, use the medication just before bedtime, unless your doctor tells you otherwise.

Swish this medication in your mouth without swallowing. Then spit it out.

Do not eat, drink, or rinse your mouth for 30 minutes after using fluoride topical.

Store fluoride topical at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I overdose on APF Gel (Fluoride Topical)?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine.

Overdose symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhea, drooling, numbness or tingling, loss of feeling anywhere in your body, muscle stiffness, or seizure (convulsions).

Overdose symptoms may result if you swallow large amounts of fluoride while using it.

What happens if I miss a dose of APF Gel (Fluoride Topical)?

Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to use the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

Edited from everydayhealth.com