Stannous oxide (SnO) is primarily used as a reducing agent in organic chemical synthesis, enabling selective reduction of functional groups. It serves as a precursor for producing other tin(II) compounds and salts. In the ceramics industry, it acts as a reducing agent to control firing atmospheres and enhance material properties. A significant application is in oral care products, such as toothpastes, where it provides stannous ions to combat tooth decay, reduce dentin hypersensitivity, and offer antibacterial effects. It is also utilized in electroplating processes as a source of Sn(II) ions for applying protective tin coatings on metals. Additionally, it finds niche use in some sensor technologies and as a catalyst in select polymerization reactions.