Stannous Fluoride

Individuals who are bedridden for long periods may become deficient in zinc, which can affect the strength of bone that is formed. In a controlled study of healthy adults who were confined to bed, fluoride supplementation prevented zinc loss from the body. Bedridden individuals should consult a qualified healthcare practitioner for guidance in using fluoride to prevent zinc deficiency.

Collagen is a protein that is used in many areas of the body for structural support. One test tube study showed that the active form of vitamin D, 1,25 dihydroxycholecalciferol, increased the production of a certain type of collagen when it was combined with fluoride. Controlled research is needed to determine whether taking 1,25 dihydroxycholecalciferol with sodium fluoride might promote beneficial collagen growth.

Vitamin E increases the resistance of tooth enamel to acids that cause cavities, and test tube studies show that fluoride, when added to vitamin E, enhances this effect. Controlled research is needed to determine whether people might develop fewer cavities when taking vitamin E and fluoride together.

Research shows that calcium from leg bones may be transferred to bones in the spine causing stress fractures when fluoride is taken alone. However, supplementing with 1,500 mg of calcium each day together with slow-release forms of fluoride increases the bone density of the lumbar spine without causing fractures. Therefore, people taking sodium fluoride to treat osteoporosis should probably supplement with calcium to prevent this adverse effect. However, taking fluoride and calcium at the same time significantly reduces the absorption of fluoride; consequently, they should be taken at least an hour apart.