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Stannous Fluoride vs Sodium FluorideWondering which toothpaste to choose?

The one that has stannous fluoride or toothpaste with sodium fluoride. Look no further. To understand which kind of toothpaste is right for you, it is important that you learn about the commonly used fluorides in oral care products, such as toothpaste. Fluoride is an active ingredient used in toothpaste.

Both stannous fluoride and sodium fluoride are effective sources of fluoride ions that work beneficially in remineralizing and strengthening weak enamel to fight cavities. Additionally, when ingredients such as triclosan and potassium nitrate are added to oral care products that contain these fluorides, they help fight gingivitis and sensitivity. To know more about them, their advantages and risks, take a look at this guide below.

Stannous Fluoride vs Sodium Fluoride: Overview

Fluorides, namely stannous fluoride and sodium fluoride are formed when the element fluorine is combined with metal or other substances. Stannous fluoride, another mineral of sodium fluoride family was introduced in 1950, and was added to toothpaste until the cheaper alternative and better tasting, sodium fluoride developed. Nevertheless, both these fluorides when used in oral care products help strengthen and repair enamel that is weakened by acids, preventing decay. Stannous fluoride should not be used like an ordinary toothpaste. It should be applied after brushing and should be left for about 25- 30 minutes before one resumes eating or drinking. Sodium Fluoride, on the other hand, can also be used as an oral supplement. However, it is highly advisable not to go beyond the recommended daily dosage combined from various sources.

Stannous Fluoride vs Sodium Fluoride: Benefits

Oral products that contain stannous fluoride and sodium fluoride play a crucial role in helping maintain good oral health. Take a look at some of their benefits listed below-

Stannous Fluoride in Oral Healthcare Products: Benefits

  • Reduce bacteria in the mouth: Stannous fluoride contains strong antibacterial properties that help reduce the bacteria in the mouth. Moreover, since acids in the mouth are usually produced by bacteria, using a stannous fluoride product helps decrease the production of acids, reducing the risk of developing cavities and decay. For best results, brush your teeth with a stannous fluoride toothpaste at the same hour once every day.
  • Reduce Tooth Sensitivity: One of the most common oral health problem experienced by people worldwide, tooth sensitivity usually results from exposed dentinal tubules, caused due to gingival recession and loss of cementum. Using a toothpaste containing stannous fluoride helps occlude dental tubules, restraining the movement of fluids in the tubules, reducing nerve stimulation.
  • Dry Mouth Remedy: Patients with xerostomia or those suffering from dry mouth symptoms can benefit greatly by using stannous fluoride oral products. The production of saliva is important to help protect one with acid and tooth decay. Using Stannous fluoride oral products can help those whose salivary glands to do produce enough saliva to keep their mouth and teeth healthy.

Sodium Fluoride in Oral Healthcare Products: Benefits

  • Prevent cavities and tooth decay: Using a sodium fluoride oral care product causes the fluoride to be absorbed by teeth enamel, making the teeth more resistant and stronger to the acids that can cause tooth decay.
  • Repair enamel: Using a sodium chloride toothpaste not only thwart oral bacteria to create enamel-eroding acids in your mouth but also help remineralize weakened enamel before it dissolves and disappears.
  • A versatile Ingredient: Apart from being used by both and children for superior dental benefits, using a sodium fluoride toothpaste works beneficially for any type of tooth, whether it is been serving your healthy mouth for decades or has just erupted.

Stannous Fluoride vs Sodium Fluoride: Risks

Stannous Fluoride in Oral Healthcare products: Risks

  • Requires Prescription: Stannous fluoride is medicated toothpaste and requires a prescription, especially if children below 12 years of age are using it.
  • Stain teeth: Apart from having a metallic taste, toothpaste with stannous fluoride can cause temporary teeth staining if it is overused. To remove these stains, it is best that you contact your dentist.
  • Allergic reactions: In rare cases, using an oral product containing stannous fluoride can cause allergic reactions such as dizziness, itching or trouble in breathing. If this happens, it is highly recommended that you contact your doctor immediately.

Read: Best Denture Adhesive

Sodium fluoride in Oral Healthcare products: Risks

  • Fluorosis: A condition that causes brown spots and mottling on the teeth surface, Fluorosis usually occurs when the sodium fluoride level in higher than the normal level (1ppm) in any oral health care product. Although this condition does not affect dental health, it cannot be reversed and does require cosmetic treatment for treating it.
  • Risk of skeletal issues: the use of excess fluoride can often lead to a risk of skeletal issues known as skeletal fluorosis. In this condition, one experiences stiffness or pain due to the build of fluoride in and around the bones of the body. As a result of this condition, a person experiences mobility issues.
  • Hypothyroidism: Adding sodium fluoride to water can often contribute or worsen existing thyroid conditions. Guidelines have been issued by the government on the intake of fluoride both children and adults.

Both stannous fluoride and sodium fluoride toothpaste contain minerals that can help you achieve a good oral care. Both these fluorides help prevent cavities, decay and help strengthen the acid weakened enamel. However, unlike sodium fluoride, accidentally swallowing stannous fluoride may cause harm. To know about the fluoride content in toothpaste, check the tube or packaging. This will not only help you learn about the active ingredient used in the toothpaste( sodium fluoride or stannous fluoride) but also help you determine the percent or amount of volume. In addition, when buying any fluoride toothpaste, whether sodium fluoride or stannous fluoride, it is important that get the one that has ADA seal of acceptance. Having the American Dental Association (ADA) can help you determine the fluoride content of toothpaste to attain safe and effective results.

Learning about the benefits and risks of toothpaste with Stannous Fluoride vs Sodium Fluoride and using toothpaste moderately and properly will not only help you find the right kind of toothpaste for your needs and requirements, but will also have healthy teeth and mouth all your life.

Absorption

Absorption is an essential process that takes place in our body, particularly in the digestive system. It involves the movement of nutrients from the food we eat into our bloodstream, where they are transported throughout the body to support various functions. Absorption occurs in the small intestine, where nutrient molecules are broken down and then transported into the bloodstream through the intestinal wall.

One important aspect of absorption is the role of enzymes. These are proteins that catalyze the breakdown of larger nutrient molecules into smaller ones that can be easily absorbed by the body. For instance, enzymes in the small intestine break down proteins into amino acids, carbohydrates into simple sugars, and fats into fatty acids and glycerol. Without enzymes, the nutrients in food would not be broken down into their usable forms and absorbed into the bloodstream.

Another critical factor in absorption is the surface area of the small intestine. The small intestine has millions of tiny finger-like projections called villi and microvilli. They increase the surface area of the small intestine, which helps in the absorption of nutrients. The villi and microvilli are lined with cells that absorb nutrients and transport them into the bloodstream. The increased surface area provided by the villi and microvilli ensures that there is enough space for maximum nutrient absorption.

In conclusion, absorption is an essential process that takes place in our body after we consume food. It relies on enzymes to break down nutrients into usable forms and the small intestine’s villi and microvilli to ensure maximum absorption. Absorption provides the body with the necessary nutrients to support its functions and maintain overall health.