Xylitol, a sugar alcohol, is often used as a sweetener in baking goods, as a sugar substitute, and as a common ingredient in toothpaste and chewing gums. Research supports that xylitol in chewing gums and toothpaste has anti-cavity effects and can significantly promote the reduction of cavity-causing bacteria.
When saliva production increases bacteria overgrowth is slowed. The saliva can act as a buffer to disease-causing bacteria and reduce the chances that a cavity can form. This saliva production can also decrease the acid levels in the mouth, leading to more alkaline environments that inhibit the growth of cavity-causing bacteria as well as bacteria that cause gum disease.
For cavities to form, bacteria in the mouth feed off sugars in the mouth. However, these cavity-causing bacteria cannot consume xylitol and essentially will starve the sugar-eating bacteria that leads to cavity formation. This leads to a reduced risk of cavity formation.
Xylitol prevents bacteria from sticking to tooth surfaces, reducing plaque accumulation. Reduced plaque levels can also lead to decreased cavity risks.
Some research has shown that xylitol can also help promote remineralization of tooth layers due to the movement of calcium and phosphorus that help strengthen tooth structure.
Xylitol can be found as an ingredient in many over-the-counter products, including lozenges, gums, sprays, toothpaste, and mouth rinses. It’s important to note that xylitol, being a sugar alcohol, can cause some gastrointestinal upset if consumed in larger quantities. Talk to your dental provider to determine the best product for your oral and systemic health.