How does a fluoride rinse work?

Swishing with a fluoride rinse, along with tooth brushing and flossing, is a great way to protect your teeth. It will strengthen the enamel and help prevent tooth decay.

You'll generally use a fluoride rinse at the same time you brush your teeth. Use it the same way you do mouthwash: Take in a small amount, swish it around your mouth for a minute or so and then spit it out. Look for fluoride rinses that have the "ADA Accepted" seal on the label, which means the American Dental Association has found that the rinse can help prevent and reduce tooth decay when it is used according to directions. If the mouth rinse is for your child, make sure it is alcohol-free and safe for someone your child's age; don't give it to a child under the age of six. Watch your child to make sure he or she spits it out -- it's important not to swallow it.

When a fluoride rinse, also called a fluoride topical, is used fluoride that stays in the mouth for about 30 minutes inhibits the formation of cavities and tooth decay. It can also strengthen the enamel of your teeth. After you brush your teeth, swish the fluoride rinse around in your mouth and then spit it. Don't rinse your mouth out or drink or eat anything for 30 minutes afterward. Ask your dentist if a fluoride rinse is right for you.

A fluoride rinse works as a mouth rinse: You swish a couple of teaspoons’ worth in your mouth for a minute and then spit it out. Bathing your teeth in the rinse helps to remineralize their enamel, which can prevent cavities from forming and even help repair early decay. Fluoride rinses are available over-the-counter or by prescription.