What Is the Difference Between Sodium Fluoride and Stannous Fluoride?
Posted on 8/15/2024 by Water's Edge Dental
You probably know that fluoride is an extremely important mineral for the health of your teeth and gums. However, you might not know that there is more than one type of fluoride that can improve the longevity of your teeth. Here is a description of the benefits of fluoride and how different types of fluoride can work together to keep your teeth strong and healthy.
Fluoride as a Wonder Mineral
Nearly 100 years ago, a dentist traveled to a city in Colorado and noticed that the inhabitants still had all of their adult teeth, which was extremely rare for the time. While the adults had all of their teeth, the dentist noticed their teeth were strong but stained brown. The dentist found the reason for both the staining and the strength of the teeth was that the water came from an area rich in the mineral fluoride.
Gradually, public health experts and dentists campaigned for fluoride to be added to all drinking water to keep permanent teeth as strong as possible. Because many of us drank water throughout our childhood that contained fluoride and brushed our teeth with fluoride toothpaste, more adults are able to keep their teeth for their entire lives.
Two Types of Beneficial Fluoride
There are many fluoride compounds available, both natural and manufactured. However, two kinds of fluoride are used regularly to help teeth stay strong. Sodium fluoride is the type of fluoride used most often. You can find this type of fluoride in municipal water systems and toothpaste. Sodium fluoride helps fight tooth decay in two ways: it keeps teeth hard and strong and eliminates the bacteria that cause tooth decay.
However, if you have gum disease that you are fighting against, a toothpaste that contains stannous fluoride is excellent for fighting the bacteria that cause gum disease. Stannous fluoride is known for its anti-microbial capability. However, too much stannous fluoride will stain your teeth. If you can find a toothpaste with both kinds of beneficial fluoride, you will be taking great care of your teeth.
Not sure which type of fluoride is best for you? We can help. Contact us today to make an appointment with our dentist.
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You probably know that fluoride is an extremely important mineral for the health of your teeth and gums. However, you might not know that there is more than one type of fluoride that can improve the longevity of your teeth. Here is a description of the benefits of fluoride and how different types of fluoride can work together to keep your teeth strong and healthy.