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SODIUM FLUORIDE

Description

Sodium fluoride is a well-established and widely used compound in oral care and dental products. This inorganic salt consists of sodium and fluoride ions and is known for its ability to strengthen tooth enamel and prevent dental caries. When applied topically, sodium fluoride interacts with hydroxyapatite in tooth enamel to form fluorapatite, a more resistant mineral structure that enhances protection against acid attacks from bacteria.

In skincare, sodium fluoride has limited but noteworthy applications. It can be found in some specialized formulations targeting acne and skin infections due to its antimicrobial properties. The ingredient may help regulate sebum production and reduce inflammation associated with certain skin conditions. However, its use in skincare is less common compared to its prevalence in oral care.

The concentration of sodium fluoride in products is carefully regulated due to potential toxicity at high doses. In dental products, it typically ranges from 0.1% to 1.1%, while skincare applications use much lower concentrations. It's important to note that sodium fluoride is most effective when used as directed and should not be ingested in large amounts. Regular use of fluoride-containing products has been instrumental in reducing dental caries rates worldwide.