How should I take sodium fluoride?

You should take sodium fluoride exactly as directed by your doctor. Typically, this will be once daily with a full glass of water with or without food. If you're using the gel form of sodium fluoride, brush your teeth with regular toothpaste, then apply a small amount of gel to your teeth using a toothbrush or tray. Leave the gel on your teeth for at least one minute, then spit it out. If you're using the cream form (toothpaste) of sodium fluoride, use it in place of your regular toothpaste: Put it on your toothbrush and brush your teeth for two minutes, then spit it out. If you have questions about dose or how to take sodium fluoride, talk to your doctor or dentist.

How you take sodium fluoride -- a mineral which fights tooth decay -- depends on what form it's in. Your toothpaste should contain sodium fluoride, as well as your tap water, since most cities add sodium fluoride to municipal drinking water.

Your dentist, however, may advise you to take sodium fluoride supplements if you are not getting enough of the mineral. Prescription tablets or capsules containing sodium fluoride are usually taken once a day.  Prescription sodium fluoride is also available in liquid form, which can be added to juice or other foods. Ask your dentist or pharmacist for complete instructions when taking sodium fluoride supplements.

Sodium fluoride is a naturally-occurring chemical compound which is added to toothpaste and community water supplies. Both methods are very safe and effective at helping to prevent tooth decay (cavities). The U.S. Public Health Service, through its Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, called community water fluoridation one of 10 great public health measures of the 20th Century.