Exploring The Potential Of Xylitol In Preventing Dental Decay

Tooth decay and cavities are prevalent dental problems, especially among children. This is attributed to poor oral hygiene and unhealthy eating habits. Currently, a popular ingredient is trending and used in several toothpastes, and mouthwashes that claim to prevent cavities. This super ingredient is- Xylitol!

South Reno family dentist and their team will help you know if Xylitol is worth the hype and if it can prevent tooth cavities, especially in children.

What is Xylitol?

Xylitol is a popular sugar sweetener called sugar alcohol, though it does not contain sugar or alcohol. It is found in a variety of fruits and vegetables. It can also be traced in your body after carbohydrate metabolism. This magical ingredient tastes as sweet as sugar but with fewer calories, and does not feed the cavity-causing bacteria in your mouth.

Xylitol has a low glycemic index (it does not cause any spike in your blood glucose levels), making it a safe alternative for diabetics. It is a common additive in foods, and other products like sugar-free gum, hard candies, mints, jams, chocolate, cough syrup, and even saline solution for nasal rinses. This is also present in toothpaste and mouthwash for kids.

Does Xylitol prevent cavities?

There have been several research studies to prove the efficacy of Xylitol in preventing cavities in kids and adults. Bacteria cannot rely on Xylitol to produce toxic by-products. Therefore they cannot cause cavities. Regularly consuming Xylitol reduces the amount of certain bacterial strains that are most responsible for tooth decay. Over time bacteria may die off and fewer can survive on the tooth surfaces. Less plaque clings to the teeth and the levels of acids that attack the teeth are lowered, reducing the risk of cavities. 

Xylitol is also used as a promising anti-periodontitis agent for reducing inflammation of the gums. Furthermore chewing Xylitol gums can increase the flow of saliva as well, which rinses away the bacteria and acids and remineralizes the tooth enamel. Thus it prevents tooth decay or even reverses it in its earliest stage.

Is Xylitol safe for kids?

Xylitol is safe for kids and adults in the amounts found in oral health products and food. It is an FDA-approved ingredient that is being used as a sugar substitute and additive. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry supports the use of Xylitol and other sugar alcohols as non-cariogenic sugar substitutes.

However, care has to be taken about its dosage since large amounts can cause diarrhea, gas, and digestive issues.