Why Is Xylitol Good for Teeth and Oral Hygiene?

Xylitol is an ingredient in chewing gum. It’s a sweetener that naturally helps prevent cavities. Today’s blog from Northside Dental Clinic explains why xylitol is good for your teeth and oral hygiene.

Natural Sugar Alternative

Xylitol is equal in sweetness and volume to sugar, yet it inhibits the growth of bacteria that cause cavities. Streptococcus mutans bacteria cannot utilize xylitol as a food source to grow on your teeth.

Better Over Time

Over time, the effects of xylitol accumulate for oral hygiene. The quality of the bacteria in your mouth changes over time with continued use, and fewer decay-causing bacteria survive on the surface of your teeth. Less plaque forms, and acid levels are lowered.

This is compared to similar products that contain ordinary sugar. If you’re looking for an alternative to sugar, xylitol is one ingredient to consider.

First Ingredient

Xylitol is typically found in chewing gum and breath mints. To be most effective at inhibiting bacterial growth, xylitol must be the first ingredient of the chewing gum or mints. Optimal amounts of xylitol are about 5 grams per day, or three to five pieces of chewing gum, for oral hygiene. Look for foods that contain xylitol in health food stores or specialty stores. You can purchase some products over the internet, too.

Part of a Holistic Oral Hygiene Regimen

Chewing gum does NOT replace brushing and flossing your teeth twice a day and avoiding sugary foods and beverages. Your oral hygiene should be a combination of a good diet, brushing daily, and seeing your dentist every six months. However, foods with xylitol instead of sugar can have decay-preventive qualities.

Tips From Northside Dental Clinic 

Northside Dental Clinic wants you to have the best oral hygiene. Food with xylitol can help you get there. Contact Northside Dental Clinic online or call (417) 862-2468 for more information.