Research is now showing that daily use of Xylitol chewing gum or mints can cause a dramatic reduction in new tooth decay, along with arresting and even some reversal of existing dental caries.  Xylitol provides additional protection that enhances all existing prevention methods.  This xylitol effect is long-lasting and possibly permanent.  Low decay rates persist even years after the trials have been completed. Daily consumption of xylitol is associated with dramatically decreased Streptococcus mutans bacteria levels (the cavity causing bacteria) in saliva and plaque.

 

Xylitol is a naturally occurring sweetener.  Some of the best sources are fruits, berries, mushrooms, hardwoods and corn cobs.

 

In the amounts needed to prevent tooth decay (less than 15 grams per day), xylitol is safe for everyone.

 

How to use Xylitol

It is not necessary to replace all sweeteners to get the dental benefits of xylitol.  Look for xylitol sweetened products that encourage chewing or sucking to keep the xylitol in contact with your teeth.  The best items use xylitol as the principal sweetened.

 

How much?

Studies show that 4 to 12 grams of xylitol per day are most effective.  It’s easy to keep track of your xylitol intake.  The “all xylitol” mints and gums contain about one gram of xylitol in each piece.  You can begin with as little as one piece four times a day for a total of four grams.  It is not necessary to use more that 15 grams per day as higher intakes yield diminishing dental benefits.

 

How often?

If used only occasionally or even as often as once a day, xylitol may NOT be effective, regardless of the amount.  Use xylitol at least three, and preferably 5 times every day, chewing it for at least 5 minutes each time.

 

Timing

Use immediately after eating and clearing the mouth by swishing water, if possible.  Between meals, replace ordinary chewing gum, breath mints or breath spray with comparable xylitol products.

 

Xylitol gum and mints are available under the brand names Spry and Epic.  Whole Foods Markets and New Seasons Markets are the only stores that carry them locally, however you can order online from several sites.  Trident also carries a chewing gum with xylitol; however the amount of xylitol is minimal and may not really be beneficial.

            Sprydental.com

            Epicdental.com

            Myxylitol.com