Xylitol: Natural Sweetener With Dental Benefits

Posted on 04/11/2022 by Nam Thien Vu, DDS

Xylitol is a naturally occurring sugar and is a substitute for those who do not know how to use processed sugar. It is safe for people with diabetes and people with allergies to wheat, barley or dairy products. Xylitol does not raise blood sugar like other sugar substitutes and has a low glycemic index. It is also an anti-microbial, anti-fungal, and antiviral.
This substance has been shown to improve oral health and fight cavity-causing bacteria in the mouth. In animal testing, Xylitol has been shown to reduce the amount of plaque on teeth by as much as 30%. It is also believed that Xylitol reduces the risk of dental cavities by up to 35%.

What Are Other Dental Benefits of Xylitol

Sugar is known to be bad for our oral health because the harmful bacteria in our mouth feed on it and harm our teeth' enamel. The good news is that Xylitol has been proven to protect our dental health in many ways. This is because Xylitol is an antimicrobial, so it removes harmful bacteria from our mouths. It is also an anti-fungal, preventing the growth of harmful fungi that can cause cavities. Apart from that, it is antiviral, so it kills the bad virus that can cause decay and cavities. It does this by removing plaque and hence helps reduce tartar buildup on teeth.

Should I Give My Child Products that Contain Xylitol?

Xylitol is very safe for children, and parents can provide their kids with products that contain this compound to improve the health of their kids' teeth. There are a lot of Xylitol products available on the market that parents can give their kids to help improve their oral health. Some of the best products that contain Xylitol are XyloSweet Toothpaste, Xylitol Gum, Xylitol Lozenges, Xylitol Mouthwash, and Xylitol Candies. However, it is best to consult your dentist before giving your child products containing Xylitol, especially if your child has been diagnosed with various dental issues before. For more information, do not hesitate to contact our pediatric dentist to know what is best for your child's teeth.

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