Xylitol- the natural sweetener that prevents tooth decay
Xylitol is a natural sweetener now used in may chewing gums and mints that can drastically reduce tooth decay. In study after study, it has shown an ability to improve oral health. Chewing gum is the best delivery method since it stays in the mouth for a prolonged period of time.
The simple act of chewing xylitol gum for 5 minutes, 5-10 times per day, reaps benefits that can’t be disputed. Xylitol works its magic by starving the decay-causing bacteria and reducing acids that break down enamel.
Who benefits from the use of xylitol? EVERYONE!!!
- Parents of infants (6-24 months in age) who chew gum containing xylitol can reduce the amount of strep bacteria that is passed to their children by as much as 70%. Babies are not born with these bacteria; we give it to them. There is also a benefit of reduced ear and lung infection.
- Children should start chewing xylitol around age 5 for long term benefits and to help avoid early tooth decay.
- College students can use xylitol to reduce decay that can be caused by poor diet and stressful life style.
- Anyone with dry mouth concerns due to medications or medical conditions can benefit by using Biotene dry mouth products or Tom’s of Maine toothpastes containing xylitol
- Nursing home patients, who can chew gum safely, but who have lost the ability to care for their teeth can reduce decay by using xylitol.
Look for xylitol in other foods and snacks . It provides almost magical help in preventing tooth decay.
For more information on xylitol or any dental questions St. Louis Hills Dental Group is located at 6979 Chippewa (one block west of Ted Drewes). We can be reached by phone at 314-644-0440 or our website is www.stlouishillsdental.com.
Tags: good chewing gum, improve oral health, reduce decay
This entry was posted on Wednesday, January 20th, 2010 at 10:31 am and is filed under Fillings. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.
« Dentistry and the Diabetic Patient