Is stannous fluoride the same as sodium fluoride?
No, they are not the same.
What’s the difference between sodium fluoride and stannous fluoride?
Both stannous fluoride and sodium fluoride can be used as active ingredients in fluoride toothpastes, so we usually hard to choose the toothpaste and don’t know which one to choose.
Let’s compare them in the following aspects, then we will know which one suits us better.
Chemical composition
- The chemical formula of stannous fluoride is SnF2, which is a kind of tin fluoride, and stannous fluoride is a colorless solid at room temperature and pressure, easily soluble in water, insoluble in ethanol, ether and chloroform.
- Sodium fluoride formula is NaF and is a fluoride of sodium. Sodium fluoride, on the other hand, is a white solid, soluble in water.
Produce methods
- Stannous fluoride can be prepared by chemical reaction, such as reacting tin powder with hydrofluoric acid to form SnF2.
- Sodium fluoride can be prepared by both chemical reaction and electrolysis.
In dentistry
- Sodium fluoride is mainly used to prevent dental caries.
- Stannous fluoride is better at treating chronic caries and reducing gum bleeding. It is because stannous fluoride can enhance the acid resistance of tooth enamel, control gingivitis and reduce gum bleeding ( it can not reverse periodontitis). It should not generally be used in children under 12 years of age.
Safety
- Sodium Fluoride: Long-term excessive intake may lead to chronic fluorosis, so the use of the dose should be carefully controlled.
- Stannous fluoride: prohibited for those who are allergic to this product, use with caution for those with allergies.
Applicable people
- Sodium fluoride: Suitable for the general population as the caries prevention ingredient.
- Stannous Fluoride: Suitable for the treatment of chronic caries, good for bleeding gums, and sensitivity of teeth to hot and cold stimuli.
Sodium fluoride requires attention to safety measures when handling, but overall both of them are safe under normal use.
In summary, stannous fluoride and sodium fluoride differ in chemical composition, uses, preparation methods and safety. Sodium fluoride and stannous fluoride each have their unique uses and effects in dentistry. It is recommended that you choose the right one as per your health condition.
Similar contrasts:
Sodium fluoride vs sodium monofluorophosphate vs stannous fluoride .
