Linda,
Hi, I have been pondering my answer to your question, "Does he really need 1.1% sodium fluoride in his toothpaste too?" and to tell you the truth, been perplexed by how I should answer.
So... I have a few questions. How is his dental health? Are his salivary glands functioning normally? Does he have regular exams and hygiene appointments with his dentist? Is he experiencing pain, discomfort or sensitivity with his teeth?
Need, is a subjective observation. I determine what a patient "Needs" in my opinion, by my clinical observations of their history, my clinical findings, their current dental and medical health status, type of treatment I belive is required "needed", current research and my personal experience in treating similar patients. (Yes...I know this is very vague.) His dentist recommended he use it and I would suspect that this dentist feels that Ken will benefit from using it along with his nightly fluoride trays. If Ken chooses not to use this particular toothpaste for whatever reason will he experience anything detrimental, compared to nigh time fluoride tray use alone I don't know. I would surmise that the difference would be insignificant providing his dental health was already immaculate.
I have, in certain cases, advised patients to use night time fluoride trays and high concentration fluoride toothpastes and as well fluoride mouth rinses. I make these decisions based on the specifics of each case. The biggest consideration that steers me to add each item is overall dental health and patient compliance.
My experience has shown me that even if it is only a short term usage that I have usually been right. When I see stable dental health I eliminate one product at a time.
Hard to give you advice when I haven't seen Ken.
Are there cheaper products that are as effective, yes. Where do you find them depends on where you live and what is available.
I'll look into it for you and let you know.
Cheers,
Mike