If you are experiencing the initial stages of tooth decay, using toothpaste with a high fluoride can significantly benefit your treatment. However, high-fluoride toothpaste is only available on prescription. This blog post explains why high-fluoride toothpaste is prescription-only and how you can buy it online to start treating tooth decay as soon as possible.
What is High Fluoride Toothpaste?
High fluoride toothpaste is a type of toothpaste that contains a higher concentration of fluoride than regular toothpaste. While regular toothpaste typically contains around 1,000 to 1,500 parts per million (ppm) of fluoride, high-fluoride toothpaste contains approximately 5,000 ppm of fluoride. This higher concentration allows for more effective prevention and reversal of early stages of tooth decay.
The main purpose of high-fluoride toothpaste is to promote remineralisation of the tooth enamel and provide enhanced protection against cavities. Fluoride helps to strengthen the enamel and make it more resistant to acid attacks from the plaque that forms on the teeth.
High fluoride toothpaste is only available on prescription from dentists or private pharmacies in the UK. It is typically prescribed by dentists for patients who have an increased risk of tooth decay or have a history of dental caries (cavities). It is also recommended for individuals with a dry mouth or taking medications that cause dry mouth, as saliva plays a crucial role in protecting the teeth against decay.
The most popular high-fluoride toothpaste is Colgate Duraphat, however, in our Online Dental Clinic, we also have generic brands and different fluoride strengths available.
Why is High Fluoride Toothpaste Prescription Only?
High fluoride toothpaste is a prescription-only toothpaste due to the higher concentration of fluoride compared to regular toothpaste. These higher levels aren’t suitable for everyone and can have potential side effects if not used correctly or if excessive amounts are swallowed.
In many countries, including the UK, dental products with higher concentrations of fluoride fall under regulatory guidelines that require a prescription.When prescribed, high-fluoride toothpaste is accompanied by instructions and advice from a dentist or pharmacist. They can guide you on the appropriate usage, frequency and duration of use based on your individual oral health needs. This is all based on research and evidence-based evaluation of your oral health condition and the potential benefits of using high-fluoride toothpaste.
Toothpaste with a high amount of fluoride is not suitable for children under 16 years of age. Adults are advised against using high-fluoride toothpaste alongside other fluoride treatments, such as drops, tablets, gels and varnishes. It is also important to be aware of the fluoride levels in the drinking water in your area, as some areas may already have fluoride added to their drinking water. Although fluoride is generally considered safe, excessive fluoride consumption can lead to dental fluorosis. However, severe cases of dental fluorosis are rare in the UK.
How to Use High Fluoride Toothpaste
You should use high-fluoride toothpaste in place of your regular toothpaste. We recommend following these guidelines for effective treatment:
- Brush your teeth three times a day: It is recommended to brush your teeth after every meal.
- Use 2cms of toothpaste: Squeeze out approximately 2cms of high fluoride toothpaste onto your toothbrush. This is equivalent to about 3 to 5 milligrams of fluoride.
- Brush your teeth vertically: Brush your teeth vertically, starting from the gum and moving towards the tip of the tooth. This helps to clean the front and back surfaces of your teeth effectively.
- Spit out excess foam: After brushing, spit out any excess foam. Avoid swallowing the toothpaste, as high fluoride concentrations can be harmful if ingested.
- Brush your teeth for three minutes: Brush your teeth for approximately three minutes to ensure thorough cleaning and maximum fluoride exposure.
Where to Buy High Fluoride Toothpaste Online
If you think you may benefit from using high fluoride toothpaste, it is best to consult with a professional so they can assess your oral health to determine if high-fluoride toothpaste is necessary. You can book a free online consultation with our licensed pharmacist for high fluoride toothpaste prescriptions. By filling out a short consultation form, you can get your high fluoride toothpaste prescription approved by a licensed pharmacist in the UK without needing an in-person dental appointment.
Before using high fluoride toothpaste, it is crucial to follow the instructions provided by your dentist or pharmacist. They will guide you on the proper usage and ensure you use the toothpaste safely and effectively.
