Tin(II) fluoride
Template:Chembox new Stannous fluoride, also known as tin(II) fluoride, is the chemical compound with the formula SnF2. This colourless solid is a common ingredient in toothpaste. In the enamel, it converts apatite into fluoroapatite, which is more resistant to attack by acids generated by bacteria. Sodium fluoride and sodium fluorophosphate perform similarly.
Stannous fluoride was used (under the trade name Fluoristan) in the original formulation of the toothpaste Crest[citation needed]., though it was later replaced with sodium monofluorophosphate[citation needed].. However it is the active ingredient in Crest Pro Health brand toothpaste[citation needed].
Used in combination with abrasives that contain calcium, sodium fluoride is ineffective; stannous fluoride remains effective when used with such abrasives. Stannous fluoride can cause surface staining of teeth, but these stains are not permanent.
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