Could stannous fluoride pose a health risk? What is the component found in toothpastes that have been banned in several countries?
Stannous fluoride is a therapeutic agent used for over five decades in dental care, valued for combining the caries protection provided by fluoride with unique antibacterial properties.
It is commonly used in commercial toothpastes—especially those labeled “multi-action” or “for sensitive gums”—and is used to strengthen enamel, reduce tooth sensitivity, control plaque , and prevent gum problems.
Authorities in Chile, Colombia, and Argentina have issued precautionary warnings. Photo: iStock
The compound incorporates the tin ion, which can act on gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, two of the main groups responsible for plaque formation and gum disease. This action reduces the metabolic activity of bacteria, decreasing the production of extracellular polysaccharides that facilitate plaque adhesion to teeth.
Furthermore, its antimicrobial effect can last up to 12 hours and prevents plaque reappearance even in hard-to-reach areas. Studies have shown that, after use, layers of tin fluorophosphate or tin oxide form on the enamel, compounds that contribute to remineralization and relieve tooth sensitivity.
Benefits Manufacturers such as Colgate and Oral-B emphasize that, when properly stabilized, stannous fluoride offers additional advantages over other types of fluoride:
- Cavity prevention : strengthens the outer layer of teeth and helps reverse the first signs of demineralization.
- Reduction of bacterial plaque: limits the accumulation of harmful bacteria.
- Gum protection: reduces inflammation and the risk of gingivitis.
- Bad breath control: fights the bacteria responsible for its appearance.
- Defense against dental erosion: acts as a barrier against enamel wear.
Colgate Total Clean Mint toothpaste banned Photo: iStock
Although its safety is supported by decades of clinical use, health authorities such as the National Institute for Food and Drug Surveillance (Invima) in Colombia, the Institute of Public Health (ISP) in Chile, and the Argentine National Health Administration have issued precautionary warnings after receiving reports of isolated adverse reactions.
Symptoms described include mouth ulcers or sores, a burning or itching sensation, numbness, swelling of the lips or mucous membranes, and irritation of the tongue or gums. In some cases, the appearance of oral ulcers and sores inside the mouth has also been reported.
In Mexico, the Federal Commission for the Protection against Sanitary Risks (Cofepris) announced a health alert related to Colgate Total Prevention Active Clean Mint toothpaste, after receiving reports from users who reported adverse effects after using it.
The symptoms that may occur are:
- Discomfort or pain in the mouth, tongue, gums or lips.
- Appearance of oral ulcers (small lesions on the mucosa of the mouth).
- Presence of wounds or cuts inside the oral cavity.
- Stinging or burning sensation.
- Inflammation or swelling (edema) of the tongue, lips, or other areas of the mouth.
- Verify health registration : confirm that the product is authorized by the country's regulatory entity.
- For children: Use age-appropriate versions in controlled quantities.
- If symptoms appear: discontinue use and seek dental or medical attention.
For his part, dentist Vicente Aránguiz, a professor at the Universidad de los Andes in Chile, points out that "stannous fluoride has been used for more than 50 years, is safe and effective, and its antibacterial properties are highly necessary in many clinical cases."
Stannous fluoride combines fluoride and antibacterial properties. Photo: iStock
*This content was written with the assistance of artificial intelligence, based on publicly available information released to media outlets. It was also reviewed by the journalist and an editor.
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