Why is Xylitol in Sugarless Gum?

Do you chew sugarless gum? Are you a label reader? If so you have probably heard of the sweetener Xylitol. Most people might falsely assume that xylitol is an artificial sweetener like aspartame or saccharin. They are wrong. Xylitol is actually a sweetener that occurs naturally in plums and raspberries. Xylitol is an alcohol sugar that processes the sweetness of sugar with approximately 40% fewer calories. It has been around for many years however only recently has it become mainstream. It can be readily found in many chewing gums, mouthwash and toothpaste. It is actually even found in some baked goods.

So you might wonder why a dentist concerned with a sweetener . First of all, xylitol is not like regular sugar (sucrose and fructose) in that it is not used by the bacteria to causes tooth decay. Xylitol is not metabolized by the specific cavity causing bacteria, Strep Mutans therefore it does not cause cavities. Even better, not only does it not cause cavities, it helps prevent them. Studies have shown that because the cavity causing bacteria in the mouth are unable to ferment xylitol in their metabolism, their growth is reduced. The number of acid-producing bacteria may fall as much as 90%.

It has been established that by reducing the amount of Strep mutans in the mouth not only has one reduced the chance that they will get cavities; they have also reduced the chance that those around them will get cavities. That means that parents who take xylitol are less likely to transmit the cavity causing bacteria Strep Mutans to their children.

You may wonder how much xylitol you need to consume to be effective and are there any adverse effects. Research shows that chewing 1-2 sticks of gum containing xylitol for five minutes, three times daily can decrease tooth decay by up to 62%. This is approximately 5-10 grams of xylitol per day. It should also be known that because xylitol acts like fiber and is absorbed in the small intestine if consumed in high doses can cause stomach upset.

This being said, the benefits of xylitol in fighting tooth decay are established and it is an easy way to help reduce you and those around you chance of developing dental cavities.

What do you say? Do you enjoy gum now and again? Do you try to chew sugarless gums?

Today’s post was written personally by Dr. David Civils. Do you have aquestion for either Dr. David or Dr. Janna? We would love to hear from you!