TOPICAL FLUORIDES

Dr. Shahzadi Tayyaba Hashmi

DNT 353

Topical Fluorides DEFINITION• Topical fluoride therapy refers to the use of

systems containing relatively large concentrations of fluoride that are applied locally or topically to erupted tooth surfaces to prevent the formation of dental caries

ClassificationA. Operator administered:1. Fluoride solutionso Sodium fluoride 2 %o Stannous fluoride 8%2. Fluoride gelso Acidulated phosphate fluoride ( APF)3. Fluoride varnishes

B. Self administered:• Fluoride dentifrices• Sodium fluoride• Fluoride mouth rinses

OPERATOR ADMINISTERE

D

Methods of Application

1.Fluoride solutions:

Method of application of sodium fluoride in a dental clinic:

1) Initially, cleaning and polishing of the teeth is done2) An upper and lower quadrants are isolated with cotton rolls3) Teeth are dried thoroughly4) 2% NaF is applied with cotton applicators and is permitted

to dry in the teeth for about 4 minutes5) Procedure is repeated for the remaining quadrants6) After completion, patient is instructed to avoid eating,

drinking or rinsing for 30 minutes7) Second, third and fourth applications are done at weekly

intervals

Recommended Ages• Full series of four treatment is recommended at ages 3, 7, 11, 13

Advantages:• Accepted taste• Stable if stored in a plastic container

Disadvantages:• Four visits relatively at short period of time

Fluoride application in a dental clinic

Methods of application2. Fluoride varnishes:Two most commonly used fluoride varnishes are• Duraphat ( NaF varnish)• Fluorprotector ( Silane fluoride)Method of application of fluoride varnishes In dental clinic:1. Oral prophylaxis2. Teeth are dried3. Teeth are not isolated with cotton rolls as varnish has a tendency to

stick to cotton4. The application is done first on lower arch as saliva collects more

rapidly around it, and then on upper arch5. Application of varnish is done with single tufted small brush6. After application, patient is made to sit with mouth open for 4 minutes7. Patient is instructed not to rinse or drink anything at all for one hour

and not to eat anything solids8. Patient can take liquids and semi solids only till next morning

SELF ADMINISTERED

Dentifrices

Definition:• Dentifrice is defined as a substance used with a

toothbrush for the purpose of cleaning the accessible surfaces of the teeth

Availability:• Dentifrices are available as tooth powders,

toothpastes, liquids and gels• They are either cosmetic or therapeutic

Dentifrice ingredients

1. Abrasives ( 20-40%)2. Water (20-40%)3. Humectants (20-40%)4. Foaming agent ( 1-2%)5. Binding agent ( 2%)6. Flavoring agent (2%)7. Sweetening agent (2%)8. Therapeutic agent (2%)9. Coloring agent or preservatives (1%)

Dentifrice IngredientsAbrasives:• Calcium carbonate and calcium phosphate were the most

common abrasives used• Abrasives dull the tooth surface, so to compensate for this,

polishing agents usually added

Humectants:• Are added to maintain the moisture• Sorbitol, mannitol and propylene glycol are the most common

humectants• Maintains the consistency of toothpastes

Flavoring agents:• Provides an immediate taste sensation• Relatively long-lasting flavor

Preservative:• Benzoic acid is used as a preservative to prevent bacterial growth

Fluoride mouth rinses

• Mouth rinsing is a practical and effective means for self-application of fluoride

• Helps in reduction of dental caries and halitosis

Thank you