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Elmex Gelée is a popular product for preventing tooth decay, but where can you buy it? Dentists usually recommend the tooth gel during teeth cleaning or prophylaxis.
Where to buy Elmex Gelée
Elmex Gelée is a colorless dental gel that is used as a weekly intensive treatment to prevent and treat tooth decay and to treat hypersensitive tooth necks. It contains highly concentrated amine fluoride, which is a particularly effective form of fluoride.
- Although the toothpaste is not prescription-only, it is not freely available in drugstores. It is available in pharmacies and online shops. 25 grams of the cream currently costs around 17 euros.
- The active ingredients in Elmex Gelée are: Aminofluoride Dectaflur (0.287 g per 100 g gel), Aminofluoride Olaflur (3.032 g per 100 g gel), sodium fluoride (2.210 g per 100 g gel). This corresponds to a total fluoride content of approximately 1.25%. Per 1 cm of gel (approx. 0.5 g), this is around 6.25 mg of fluoride.
- Aminofluoride forms a stable, calcium fluoride-rich layer on the surface of the teeth, which protects them from acid attacks. This layer acts as a fluoride reservoir, gradually releasing fluoride and minerals, thus supporting remineralization (re-deposition of minerals) at initial caries sites.
- Strengthening the enamel increases acid resistance, making the teeth more resistant to acid-related damage. The gel also inhibits the breakdown of sugar by acid-forming bacteria in plaque, which further inhibits the development of caries. In addition, Elmex Gelée treats hypersensitive tooth necks by closing open dentinal tubules, which cause sensitivity to cold, sweet, or hot foods.
- Ideally, it should be used once a week by applying the gel to the teeth for two minutes and then rinsing it off. It is suitable for children aged six and above, teenagers, and adults, and is particularly recommended for people with braces or partial dentures.
Side effects and what to do in case of overdose
Elmex Gelée has side effects. In case you use too much gelée, you should know what to do.
- Very rare side effects include: peeling (desquamative changes) of the oral mucosa, inflammation of the oral mucosa (stomatitis), redness, burning or itching in the mouth, numbness, swelling in the mouth area, taste disturbances, and dry mouth.
- Gingivitis (inflammation of the gums), superficial defects such as erosion, ulcers, or blisters in the oral mucosa, nausea, vomiting, or hypersensitivity reactions, e.g., to peppermint flavoring or spearmint oil, which can also cause shortness of breath, may also occur.
- If contact time is too long or the amount used is too large, irritation of the oral mucosa may occur. In extreme cases, up to 37.5 mg of fluoride (equivalent to 3 g of Elmex gel) can enter the oral cavity when used with a mini plastic splint.
- Swallowing such amounts can lead to nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. These symptoms usually occur within the first hour after ingestion and subside after three to six hours.
- What to do in case of overdose: Calcium-containing drinks, e.g., milk or calcium effervescent tablets, should be taken to bind the fluoride. A doctor should then be consulted immediately.
- Important: Children under 3 years of age should not use Elmex gel. The gel is not suitable for use if you are hypersensitive to any of the ingredients or if you have wounds in the oral mucosa. Consult your doctor before use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Inform your doctor if you experience any side effects.
