We need to keep fluorINE (F2) a highly reactive and corrosive gas
distinct from fluorIDE (F-) the ion which results from the oxidation of
fluorine.  Fluorine is so corrosive it can oxidize oxygen (and turns
into fluoride as a result).  

I suspect that a topical application of fluoride is of no value because
it is washed, brushed, or worn off rather easily.  It is not
incorporated into the tooth.  Fluorine in the water (or vitamins) goes
into the blood stream and becomes incorportated into teeth as they are
produced.  This is the reason hehind fluoridating water and having
children drink it.

The reason they may have stopped using stannous fluoride in toothpaste
is a concern over potential heavy metal (tin) poisonning.

I am not an advocate of fluoridation.  I just present these points to
help guide the discussion.

Actually, I am more concerned about eating food which has been in contact
with plastics, esp polystyrene.  Styrene monomer is really nasty stuff.

                                       Bill Gripp
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