Whats a “topical” fluoride, and when should I use it?
“Topical” fluoride is found in products created to fight tooth decay, like toothpastes and mouth rinses. They are applied directly to the teeth and are then rinsed from the mouth without swallowing. Professionally-administered topical fluorides such as gels or varnishes are applied by Durham dentist Dr. Gary Schlotterer and left on for about one or two minutes, usually during a cleaning treatment. For some patients, Dr. Schlotterer may prescribe a special gel for daily home use, to be applied with or without a mouth tray for up to six weeks.
