How much fluoride is in it
The common daily fluoride rinse in Australia, such as Colgate Neutrafluor 220, is a 0.05% sodium fluoride solution. That's about 220 to 226 ppm fluoride, depending on how it's rounded. For comparison:
- Fluoridated tap water: 0.6 to 1.1 ppm (mg/L).
- Daily fluoride mouthwash: about 220 ppm.
- Children's toothpaste: about 400 to 550 ppm.
- Adult toothpaste: 1,000 to 1,450 ppm.
- High-fluoride toothpaste: 5,000 ppm.
- Dental fluoride varnish: 22,600 ppm.
Who should (and shouldn't) use it
- Not for children 6 and under. The label warns that young children can't rinse without swallowing a significant amount. Victorian health guidance also says rinses only from age 6.
- Supervise children over 6 until they rinse and spit reliably.
- Usual use: 10 mL once a day, ideally at bedtime after brushing. Don't eat, drink or rinse with water for 30 minutes after.
- Dentists often suggest it for people with higher decay risk, braces or dry mouth.
Fluoride-free mouthwash
Most supermarket mouthwashes aimed at fresh breath or gum health contain no fluoride; check the active ingredients panel. If it lists sodium fluoride or sodium monofluorophosphate, it contains fluoride. If you're cutting fluoride, also check your toothpaste and whether your town's water is fluoridated.