Xylitol is a white crystalline substance that looks and tastes like sugar. It is found naturally and can be extracted from birch, raspberries, plums, corn and mushrooms. Technically it is not a sugar but a sugar alcohol that is sometimes called wood sugar or birch sugar. Our bodies produce up to 15mg every day as part of normal metabolism.
The great benefit of Xylitol in preventing tooth decay was “discovered” in Finland in the early 1970’s. Streptococcus Mutans bacteria found in the mouth produces toxins and acids that can dissolve teeth when foods with refined sugar[sucrose] are eaten.
Xylitol is not fermented by oral bacteria, so it cannot cause cavities [caries]. It works its magic on many levels. (1) It inhibits the growth of cavity-producing bacteria S.Mutans and lactobacilli. The number of these acid-producing bacteria may fall as much as 90%. (2) It prevents the transmission of S. Mutans from mother to child. (3) It reduces the adhesion of plaque to your teeth. (4) It stimulates salivary flow creating a greater buffer capacity against acids and aiding remineralization of your teeth.
Therapeutically, Xylitol is added to chewing gum or candy. The dosage is critical. To receive tooth decay prevention benefits, you must receive 6-10 grams of Xylitol per day. When reading the label of a Xylitol containing product, Xylitol should be the first sugar listed and ideally, the only sugar component. To be effective, the Xylitol gum should be utilized several times a day over long periods- 6 months, 1 and 2 years.
Xylitol is also added to some oral hygiene products such as toothpastes, mouthwashes, floss and fluoride supplements.
Chewing Xylitol gum after meals is a great alternative when brushing or flossing is not an option. Anybody who is at risk for dental decay such as people with dry mouth or those with exposed tooth root surfaces should consider this decay preventive therapy.
On a precautionary note- excessive chewing could lead to headaches and/or pain in the TMJ joint near your ear. Don’t over do it!
Call our office for recommendations.
