Colgate Duraphat

What is Colgate Duraphat?

Colgate Duraphat 5000 is a high fluoride toothpaste that is often prescribed for people over the age of 16 who are at a higher risk of suffering from tooth decay.

It contains around four times the normal level of sodium fluoride in the strongest regular toothpaste and works to provide the highest level of protection against decay and cavities.

You need a prescription to buy Colgate Duraphat 5000 toothpaste. 

What is Colgate Duraphat used to treat?

Colgate Duraphat toothpaste is used to help prevent and reverse the early stages of tooth decay.

It contains more than three times the amount of fluoride a normal toothpaste contains. Clinical studies have shown that a high fluoride toothpaste like Colgate Duraphat can prevent tooth decay and even reverse the early stages of decay, making for healthier teeth and improved oral health.

Your dentist or health professional will have diagnosed you with an increased risk of tooth decay for you to purchase this product.

Why is Colgate Duraphat recommended for tooth decay?

Research has shown that using high-fluoride toothpaste twice a day helps to improve the surface hardness of the tooth and prevent calories. 

How does Colgate Duraphat work?

Colgate Duraphat contains sodium fluoride in higher doses than regular toothpaste. When you brush your teeth with this high fluoride toothpaste, it will be applied to the teeth and prevent the breakdown of the tooth surface, which encourages remineralisation and helps to make damaged teeth stronger. It will strengthen the enamel of the teeth and make them more resistant to plaque acids, which cause tooth decay.

Who can use Colgate Duraphat?

Colgate Duraphat toothpaste is suitable for adults and children who are aged 16 and over.

It is not suitable for children under 16 years old.

It is generally prescribed for people who have any of the following:

• Active tooth decay or a history of tooth decay
• Exposed root surfaces
• High-sugar diet
• Orthodontic appliances
• Dry mouth

Do not use this toothpaste if you are allergic to fluoride or any of the other ingredients contained within it.

Always read the patient information leaflet before you start to use a new medication.

Can you buy Colgate Duraphat 5000 over the counter?

No, Colgate Duraphat toothpaste must be prescribed for you by a dentist. They will prescribe this toothpaste if you are at an increased risk of tooth decay.

Can you buy Colgate Duraphat 5000 online in the UK?

Yes, you can buy Colgate Duraphat online. Medicine Direct stocks this high fluoride toothpaste and it can be bought after you have completed a confidential online consultation that has been assessed by one of our certified prescribers. All you need to do is answer some questions about your medical history and condition.

We are regulated by the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) and other necessary regulatory authorities in the UK, to ensure we only sell safe and approved medication. For your own safety, only order from regulated pharmacies like Medicine Direct.

Colgate Duraphat alternatives

Using a high fluoride toothpaste like Colgate Duraphat will help to prevent tooth decay, but this is only part of the solution. You can help to keep your teeth healthy by also doing the following:

• Flossing
• Visiting the dentist regularly
• Avoiding sugary drinks and snacks
• Limiting sweet foods to mealtimes
• Brushing your teeth each day
• Using a fluoride mouthwash between brushing

Colgate Duraphat Dose and Directions

Our pharmacists and prescribers follow NICE guidelines when prescribing Colgate Duraphat.

Always follow your dentist or pharmacist's instructions when using fluoride toothpaste. Read the patient information leaflet thoroughly before you use it and check with your dentist or pharmacist if you are not sure how to use it.

How to use Colgate Duraphat

1. Use Colgate Duraphat three times a day, after meals.
2. Apply 2cm of the toothpaste to your toothbrush.
3. Brush your teeth for 3 minutes, brushing vertically down from the gum to the end of each tooth.
4. After brushing, do not rinse your mouth with water. Spit the foam from your mouth, taking care not to swallow it.

It is best not to drink or eat anything for at least 30 minutes after brushing your teeth. This will give the toothpaste time to get to work on your teeth.

Colgate Duraphat Side Effects

In very rare cases, it is possible to suffer a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to this product.

You must either call 999 or go to A&E straight away if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• You have tightness in your chest or throat
• You develop a skin rash that is red, itchy, swollen, blistered or peeling
• You have swelling in your face, throat, lips, mouth or tongue
• You are finding it difficult to breathe or speak
• You are wheezing

Always read the patient information leaflet or box directions before use. 

Colgate Duraphat warnings and drug interactions

Before you start to take any new medicines, it is very important that you always inform your doctor of any medication you may already be using. This includes both prescription and non-prescription medicine, herbal remedies, vitamins and supplements.

At present, there are no known medications that interact with Colgate Duraphat toothpaste.

Do not eat or drink anything for at least 30 minutes after brushing your teeth with Colgate Duraphat. This can inhibit the toothpaste's effectiveness.

This medication contains sodium benzoate, which is a mild irritant to the eyes and mucous membrane. If you experience a reaction to this medicine, speak to your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Colgate Duraphat toothpaste is safe to use while pregnant and breastfeeding.

Colgate Duraphat Ingredients

The active ingredient contained in this toothpaste is sodium fluoride.

Please refer to the patient information leaflet for a comprehensive list of inactive ingredients also contained in this medication.