What are the dental benefits of Xylitol?
What is Xylitol?
Xylitol is a sugar alcohol that is naturally found in fruits and vegetables. It is also commonly used as a sweetener in many foods and beverages. Xylitol has been shown to have several benefits for teeth, including:
*Reduces the risk of cavities. Xylitol is not fermented by the bacteria that cause cavities, so it does not produce the acids that can damage tooth enamel.
*Promotes saliva production. Saliva helps wash food particles and bacteria off your teeth, and it also helps to remineralize tooth enamel. Xylitol can stimulate saliva production, which can help to protect teeth from cavities.
*Reduces plaque formation. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that can build up on teeth. Xylitol can help to reduce plaque formation, which can also help to prevent cavities.
*Strengthens tooth enamel. Xylitol has been shown to strengthen tooth enamel by making it more resistant to acid.
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that people consume 6-10 grams of xylitol per day to help prevent cavities. This can be done by chewing xylitol gum, sucking on xylitol lozenges, or using xylitol-sweetened toothpaste or mouthwash.
It is important to note that both xylitol can cause digestive upset in some people. If you experience any digestive problems after consuming xylitol you should stop using it.
