Xylitol And It's Health Benefits

Have you ever heard of Xylitol? It is an abundant natural material found in plants and some fruits and vegetables. It is a perfect alternative sweetener with fewer calories than natural sugar. Chewing gum with Xylitol in it can have a huge impact on your dental health. It also has cavity prevention properties which makes it an ideal choice for your oral health. Xylitol can also increase saliva production, which is perfect for individuals suffering from dry mouth.  

How Does Xylitol Increase Your Oral Health?

Carbohydrates are broken down by your body and converted into sugar, which produces acids. It’s these acids which will eventually destroy the enamel on your teeth and allow bacteria to create cavities. Xylitol is a carbohydrate that is similar to Sucrose (table sugar) in taste but contains fewer calories. Common table sugar has four calories per gram, whereas Xylitol only has two calories per gram.  Besides being lower in calories, Xylitol actually inhibits the bacteria from causing cavities because it doesn’t break down into acids, therefore, there is nothing for the bacteria in your mouth to latch onto, and it is washed away by your saliva.

Why Is An Increase In Saliva Production Good?

Chewing gum increases your saliva production which will aid in cavity reduction. The saliva will wash food particles off of your teeth which will reduce your bacteria levels. If you suffer from dry mouth, using Xylitol gum will also ease your dry mouth symptoms as the increase in saliva will help alleviate your symptoms.

How Much Xylitol Should You Have Each Day?

Xylitol can also be found in more items then just gum. In fact, the ADA recommends ingesting at least five grams of Xylitol each day. There have been many studies to its effect on the human body and all have shown its effectiveness at reducing cavities without causing harm. Children can begin using it around five years old, however, women who are pregnant are advised not to take it.

Jackson Family Dentistry recommends using Xylitol gum over other products because it is proven to reduce the chance of cavities. Chewing one or two pieces each day will have a dramatic difference in your dental health. If you are interested in learning more or would like to try gum with Xylitol in it, please give us a call.