What Is Sodium Fluoride?
Sodium fluoride, a type of fluoride refined from natural ores, is a colorless, odorless crystalline substance. It is slightly soluble in water and forms a clear pale blue solution with a sweet taste.
Safety of Sodium Fluoride
Sodium fluoride is classified as a deleterious substance. Acute poisoning symptoms include nausea and abdominal pain, while chronic exposure can lead to dental fluorosis and bone fluorosis. It reacts with acids to produce toxic hydrogen fluoride, requiring careful handling and temperature control.
Uses of Sodium Fluoride
Used in diluted concentrations, sodium fluoride is common in dental care products like mouthwashes and toothpastes. It is also used in glass manufacturing, as a wood preservative, in metal alloys, and as an anticoagulant in blood sugar testing.
Action of Sodium Fluoride
Sodium fluoride plays a crucial role in dental health by inhibiting oral bacteria and promoting the formation of fluorapatite, thus enhancing tooth strength and resistance to decay.