Research confirms that xylitol inhibits the growth of Streptococcus mutans, the oral bacteria that causes cavities, according to a study in the General Dentistry, the clinical, peer-reviewed publication of the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD).
In 13 of the 14 chewing gum studies, xylitol gum decreased plaque accumulation. In six studies, xylitol gum chewing decreased plaque compared to sorbitol gum, and in three studies compared to gum base/no gum.
Xylitol helps reduce the risk of tooth decay by enhancing saliva flow. The saliva flow helps stabilize the overall pH levels to decrease harmful bacteria in the mouth. The harmful bacteria are also responsible for conditions like gingivitis, xerostomia, and periodontitis. Xylitol can protect your oral health!
Sugar-free gum made with xylitol can help aid in the fight against cavities. The best time to chew gum is 20 minutes after eating or drinking. Chewing sugar-free gum increases saliva flow in the mouth which helps wash away new and existing bacteria in the mouth.
It is possibly safe when used in chewing gums, candies, lozenges, toothpastes, and mouth rinses in amounts up to about 50 grams daily. It might cause diarrhea and gas in some people. Taking high doses of xylitol is possibly unsafe. Using very high doses long-term might cause tumors.
So, for a xylitol chewing gum, 2 – 3 pieces would be a moderate amount to consume. For example, in some studies, the participants took up to 4 xylitol gums in a day for a year. In addition, you don't have any concerns about xylitol side effects. Humans tolerate it very well, even in the long term.
How often must I use xylitol for it to be effective? Xylitol gum or mints used 3-5 times daily, for a total intake of 5 grams, is considered optimal. Because frequency and duration of exposure is important, gum should be chewed for approximately 5 minutes and mints should be allowed to dissolve.
The bacteria are unable to feed on xylitol and are essentially starved and cannot grow. Studies show that Xylitol dental benefits include effectively decrease acid-producing bacteria by up to 90%. Xylitol also keeps the bacteria from adhering to teeth which decreases plaque.
Gum with 100% xylitol has been shown to help build strong enamel, which is good for teeth and can make them appear whiter.
The more frequently xylitol is used, the less bacteria and acid will be in the mouth. Fewer dental visits, fewer cavities, healthier teeth and gums will result. Xylitol is recommended by general dentistry professionals, periodontists and healthcare professionals.
Caused by poor oral hygiene and accumulation of plaque, gingivitis may lead to receding gum lines, swollen gums, and periodontitis (severe gum disease) if left untreated. Research into the ability of xylitol to reverse gum disease indicates that it may help reduce mild or early-stage gingivitis.
Which gum has the most xylitol? PUR Gum has the most xylitol in their chewing gum. PUR Gum Aspartame Free has 1.1 grams of xylitol in each piece along with a few other ingredients to dilute xylitol's sweetness and health benefits.
Sugar-free gum is the only choice if you're looking for a healthy option. The best gum for your teeth will be sugar-free. Sugar-free gums usually contain xylitol as a substitute. Xylitol is a sugar substitute that provides sweetness without providing fuel to bacteria.
That translates to chewing roughly 3- 5 pieces of xylitol-sweetened gum a day. In high doses, more than about 15 grams a day, xylitol can cause stomach problems, and at even higher doses, it can give you the runs.
For most people, chewing xylitol-sweetened gum after eating is a good preventative measure when brushing and flossing aren't possible. But overall, chewing gum will never replace good oral hygiene habits.
Reason #1 - Xylitol Is Not Cheap
Xylitol is produced naturally by a wide variety of plants, including strawberries and raspberries, but in pretty small amounts. It's easiest to harvest xylitol from birch bark and corn, but even then the process is difficult and a little pricey.
Xylitol efficiently stimulates the immune system, digestion, lipid and bone metabolism. Xylitol helps in glycemic and obesity control; reduces ear and respiratory infections. Xylitol treats diseases that cannot be cured through antibiotics or by surgery.
Xylitol can be delivered to your teeth in chewing gum, tablets, or even candy and mints. You can also use it before bed—after brushing and flossing—to protect and heal your teeth as you sleep.
Xylitol helps repair tooth enamel?? It's true. In a 2-year study among children in Montreal, the kids who used xylitol chewing gum were found to have a significantly higher number of reversals of cavities than the kids who did not use it.
Xylitol occurs naturally in many fruits and vegetables. It is also commercially produced from birch bark and corn cob for use as a sweetener. Xylitol is a common ingredient in sugar-free chewing gum.
For some people, chewing gum can improve focus, reduce stress, and eliminate bad breath. However, it may also contribute to oral health issues and jaw pain. Chewing xylitol gum occasionally is good for your oral health. Xylitol actually tastes sweet without feeding the harmful bacteria in your oral microbiome.
Due to differing amounts of xylitol present in various products, the amount of a product that is needed to be ingested before toxicity is expected varies. In general, lower doses of xylitol cause hypoglycemia, while higher doses cause liver failure.