Fluoride-Containing Dentifrices

• Most toothpastes at 1,000 ppm or 0.1% F.
• During brushing F may go to the following forms:
  • Fluoroaptite.
  • Calcium F.
  • Free F.
• Between brushing saliva F levels from 0.02-0.08 ppm. This helps to transfer Ca++ and HPO4= into enamel.
• Three types of F toothpastes FDA approved:
  • Sodium Fluoride, provides free F. Does not use Ca++ abrasives.
  • Sodium Monofluorophosphate. This F complex releases free F when in contact with salivary phosphotases. Can use Ca++ abrasives.
  • Stannous Fluoride. Aids in controlling gingivitis.  Not as popular as other two.

  Ref: Winston, AE and Bhaskar, SN. Caries prevention in the 21st century. JADA, 129:1579-1586,1998.