Xylitol is a trending magical ingredient used in toothpastes and mouthwashes that claim to prevent cavities in children and adults. Currently, it is popularly used for children since they are more prone to cavities due to poor oral hygiene and unhealthy eating habits.
The family dentist in Shelby Township, MI counsel parents about the use, dose, and benefits of Xylitol in cavity prevention.
A comprehensive guide to Xylitol
Xylitol, or sugar alcohol, is a popular sugar sweetener that does not contain sugar. It is found in a variety of fruits and vegetables, and 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 favor the growth and colonization of 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, saline solution for nasal rinses, toothpastes and mouthwashes.
Exploring the potential of Xylitol in caries prevention
Several research studies have proven 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.
Furthermore, Xylitol is also used as a promising anti-periodontitis agent for reducing gingival inflammation. Chewing Xylitol gums have proven to increase the flow of saliva, which can effectively rinse away the bacteria and acids, thereby remineralizing 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.
Closure
Xylitol is a super ingredient that aids in caries prevention. However, care should to be taken to consume it in considerable dose since large amounts can cause diarrhea, gas, and digestive issues.
