Dental Benefits of Xylitol

XYLITOL is a natural sweetener derived from plants and is used to sweeten foods. Daily use has shown remarkable benefits for maintaining and improving dental health. Xylitol decreases bacteria and enhances the re-mineralization of teeth – those small decay spots just developing in the tooth enamel. Bacteria are unable to produce acid in the presence of xylitol and stabilizing the pH which prevents demineralization and hardens the lining of cavities making untreated cavities less sensitive. Xylitol also increases saliva flow which optimizes the pH level in the mouth and further promoting dental health.

The greatest benefit is seen in patient who use products containing Xylitol as the only sweetener and using it 4-5 times per day. The goal is to replace the carbohydrates and sugar in the mouth with xylitol. This can be done by using hard candies, chewing gum, toothpaste and mouthwash with xylitol. Recent research indicates that it’s frequencyrather than quantity that makes the biggest difference. Chewing xylitol gum after meals and toothpaste at bedtime will provide the best dental benefits.

Products containing xylitol can be found at your local drugstore, grocery store or health food store. Look for produces sweetened only with xylitol. Ask your Bearable Dentistry dentist or hygienist about the benefits of xylitol and if it’s right for you. We have gum samples for you to try!