Sodium monofluorophosphate (Na₂PO₃F) is an inorganic compound that usually exists as a white crystalline powder and is soluble in water. It is mainly used as an anti-caries agent and tooth desensitizer, and occupies an important position in toothpaste formulations, with a general content of 0.7% to 0.76%. In addition, sodium monofluorophosphate is used to clean metal surfaces, as a flux, and in the manufacture of specialty glass. It can also be used as a fungicide and preservative.

Sodium monofluorophosphate is a versatile inorganic compound whose main uses include:

1. Anti-caries agents and dental desensitizers: Sodium monofluorophosphate is used as a primary ingredient in toothpaste and other oral hygiene products to help prevent tooth decay and reduce tooth sensitivity. It releases fluoride ions to help strengthen tooth enamel, which fights acid erosion.

2. Cleaning metal surfaces: Sodium monofluorophosphate is also used to clean and pretreat metal surfaces, especially in industrial applications where oxides and dirt need to be removed.

3. Flux: In the metallurgical industry, sodium monofluorophosphate can be used as a flux to help lower the melting point of the metal, thereby facilitating the mixing and refining of the metal during the melting process.

4. Specialty glass manufacturing: It is also used to make special types of glass that may require specific optical or chemical properties.

5. Fungicides and preservatives: Sodium monofluorophosphate has antimicrobial properties, so it is also used as a fungicide and preservative in some products to extend the shelf life of the product and prevent microbial contamination.