Dental Insurance Plans

Stannous Fluoride vs Sodium Fluoride: What's the Difference?

Stannous Fluoride

Pros of Stannous Fluoride

• Easy to get, available over-the-counter
• Reduces tooth sensitivity
• Gingivitis
• Reduces plaque
• Whitens teeth
• Fights bad breath
  
  

Cons of Stannous Fluoride

• Treatments of Stannous Fluoride at the dentist, have a small chance of slightly staining your teeth
• Does not remineralize your teeth
  
  

Sodium Fluoride

Pros of Sodium Fluoride

• Protects teeth from cavities
• Remineralizes teeth to strengthen them
• Can combat tooth decay
  
  

Cons of Sodium Fluoride

• Does not protect against tooth sensitivity, gingivitis, odor-causing bacteria
• Typically found as a high fluoride prescription toothpaste
  
  

 Usually, if prescribed sodium fluoride toothpaste, your dentist will advise that you only brush with the prescription sodium fluoride paste before bed, and a stannous fluoride toothpaste in the morning.

Stannous fluoride can be found in most over-the-counter toothpastes, especially multi-care toothpastes, because of its antibacterial properties. It combats a wide range of conditions.

Regardless of the type of toothpaste that you choose, good oral hygiene will reduce your need for major dental services and the expense that go with them. 

Get a quote on dental insurance to talk to a dentist about what uses of fluoride will work best for you.