Fluoride Trays

How to Use Custom Fluoride Carriers (Trays)

1. Brush teeth thoroughly with a soft toothbrush and regular toothpaste.
2. Floss teeth by sliding the floss up and down each side of each tooth.
   Note: It is very important to remove all food and plaque from between teeth before using fluoride. Food and plaque can prevent the fluoride from reaching the surface of the tooth.
3. Place a thin ribbon of the fluoride gel into each upper and lower tray so each tooth space has some fluoride. Either 0.4% stannous fluoride (Gel Kam) or 1.1% sodium fluoride (Prevident) may be used.
4. Spread the fluoride into a thin film that coats the inside of the trays using a cotton-tipped applicator, finger, or toothbrush.
5. Seat the trays on the upper and lower teeth and let them remain in place for 5 minutes.
   Only a small amount of fluoride should come out of the base of the trays. If more leaks out, there may be too much fluoride in the trays.
6. After 5 minutes, remove the trays and thoroughly expectorate (spit out) the residual fluoride.
7. Do not rinse your mouth, drink, or eat for at least 30 minutes after fluoride use.

For head and neck radiation patients: Begin using fluoride in the custom trays no longer than one week after radiotherapy is completed. Repeat daily for the rest of your life. Tooth decay can occur in a matter of weeks if fluoride is not used properly.

Care for Fluoride Carriers (Trays)

1. Rinse and dry the trays thoroughly after each use. Clean them by brushing with a toothbrush and toothpaste.
2. Occasionally disinfect trays in a solution of sodium hypochlorite (Clorox) and water:
   • Mix 1 tablespoon of Clorox in ½ cup of water.
   • Soak the trays for about 15 minutes.
3. If trays develop hard water deposits, soak them in white vinegar overnight and brush them the next morning.
4. Do not boil the trays or leave them in a hot car, as they may warp or melt.