Sodium fluoride or also known as sodium fluoride is a type of material commonly used to prevent tooth decay such as cavities and gum disorders.
The mineral fluoride content can maintain healthy teeth and bones, so it is widely used in various beauty products and medicines. Here are further benefits.
Manfaat sodium fluoride
The proven effective benefit of sodium fluoride is to prevent cavities, even when exposed to acid and bacteria in the mouth. Sodium fluoride works by killing bacteria that cause cavities such as Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus acidophilus.
The ions in sodium fluoride can also reduce pH levels in the cytoplasm of cells, so that acidity levels in the oral cavity are reduced and the risk of cavities decreases. When applied topically, fluoride interacts with saliva to prevent erosion of tooth enamel.
How to use sodium fluoride
Sodium fluoride can be consumed in liquid or tablet form. Usually, doctors prescribe sodium fluoride to be taken orally. The dose is also adjusted based on age and possible fluoride exposure that has been received.
1. How to consume sodium fluoride in liquid form
If sodium fluoride is consumed in liquid form, make sure the dosage is very precise. Sodium fluoride liquid can be swallowed directly or added to drinks. However, it is best to avoid consuming sodium fluoride together with milk or other dairy products which will inhibit absorption.
2. How to take sodium fluoride in tablet form
Apart from being in liquid form, sodium fluoride can also be in the form of lozenges. If this is what your doctor prescribed, be sure to let it dissolve in your mouth before swallowing. The goal is so that the teeth can absorb the maximum sodium fluoride content in it.
For best results, do not rinse your mouth, eat, or drink within 30 minutes after consuming sodium fluoride. Furthermore, leave at least 1 hour before consuming any food or drink that contains calcium, aluminum and magnesium.
Dairy products such as yogurt or antacids and vitamins or minerals can also inhibit the maximum absorption of sodium fluoride.
People who are not advised to consume sodium fluoride
Just like other drugs, sodium fluoride also has side effects that you need to be aware of. To prevent this, understand the drug information from an early age, including who can and cannot consume sodium fluoride.
The following are several groups who should not take sodium fluoride medication:
1. Children under 6 years of age
Sodium fluoride should not be consumed by children under 6 years of age. Children ages 6 to 16 should spit out toothpaste or products containing fluoride after use and rinse their mouth thoroughly.
Don’t underestimate this, OK? You see, children are usually more sensitive to the side effects of sodium fluoride.
2. Pregnant women
The use of sodium fluoride during pregnancy cannot be done carelessly. Pregnant women should consult a doctor before using supplementation products or medications that contain this ingredient.
The reason is, even though according to the Food and Drugs Administration (FDA), this drug is included in category B drugs, which means it shows no risk to the fetus, several studies have shown different results.
As an example, study from the JAMA Network shows that exposure to high doses of sodium fluoride compounds consumed by pregnant women of more than 1 milligram per day is associated with a negative impact on the IQ of children aged 3 to 4 years.
3. Allergy sufferers
If you experience allergy symptoms after consuming sodium fluoride, consult a doctor immediately. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which may cause allergic reactions or other health problems.
Before taking any medication, make sure to read the drug content table on the packaging first. Make sure the product does not contain substances that can make your allergies recur.
Message from TipsForWomens
Apart from ensuring adequate sodium fluoride intake, also complete regular treatment by visiting the dentist, ideally once every 6 months. You also don’t need to worry, because according to the American Dental Association or ADA, the use of sodium fluoride for dental care and preventing cavities has been proven to be safe. Protection from sodium fluoride can be used by anyone, except babies under 6 months old.
However, you still have to consume it according to the dosage recommended by your dentist.
