26/08/2026
🦷 **High-Fluoride Toothpaste – When Is It Prescribed?
You may have heard of 2,800 ppm or 5,000 ppm fluoride toothpaste and wondered whether you should be using it.
High-fluoride toothpaste is prescription-only and is intended for patients who are at increased risk of tooth decay or have active dental caries.
🔹 2,800 ppm fluoride may be prescribed for patients aged 10+ who have a high risk of tooth decay.
🔹 5,000 ppm fluoride may be prescribed for patients aged 16+ with a high risk of decay, particularly those with active or root caries.
It may also be appropriate for some patients with risk factors such as dry mouth/reduced saliva flow, certain medications or previous head and neck radiotherapy.
What about sensitive teeth?
High-fluoride toothpaste is not normally prescribed for tooth sensitivity alone. If you have sensitive teeth, a toothpaste specifically designed for sensitivity, such as Sensodyne or a similar product, may be more appropriate.
If you've previously had a high-fluoride toothpaste prescribed, you may find that your dentist is unable to issue a repeat prescription if there is no longer an appropriate clinical indication. Prescribing must follow current professional guidance.
💡 If you're unsure which toothpaste is right for you, speak to your dental team. We can assess your individual risk and recommend the most appropriate option.
Look after your smile – prevention is always better than treatment! 🦷✨
*Information based on current UK dental prescribing and prevention guidance. *Individual prescribing decisions are based on clinical assessment.
