The Sweet Way to Healthy Teeth

Dr. John Peldyak, DMD

(Article recently published in Healthy Utah Magazine)

Dental health is constantly threatened by unavoidable destructive factors. Sugar is high-energy fuel that nasty bacteria use to produce acids, which destroy teeth and gums when left unchecked. Germs that cause tooth decay can even grow on popular sugar substitutes such as sorbitol and mannitol. So why are these ingredients in your toothpaste? It is time for something better--xylitol.

What is Xylitol?

Xylitol is a versatile natural sweetener with remarkable health benefits. It is found in fruits and vegetables, and produced by our bodies during normal metabolism. Xylitol has a delightful sugary taste. Since sweetness is the same, xylitol can be used as a direct sugar replacement. Diabetics can use xylitol because it is low calorie (40% less than sugar) and low glycemic (Glycemic Index is 7).

The structure of the xylitol molecule is related to sugars (with "-ose" ending such as sucrose, fructose, and glucose) and is a first cousin to other polyols ("sugar alcohols" with "-ol" ending such as sorbitol, mannitol, and maltitol).

These common food carbohydrates are built on a 6-carbon backbone. Xylitol has a very stable 5-carbon architecture, giving it unique properties. Unlike sugars (and to a lesser extent other polyols), xylitol is not a good food source for bacteria and yeast. Sugars promote tooth decay whereas xylitol acts as the natural dental antidote for sugar, blocking those harmful effects and building protective factors.

Oral Care

An outstanding feature of xylitol is its specific activity against the Streptococcus mutans germs that cause tooth decay. Streptococcus mutans bacteria invade inaccessible niches where they use sugars to build plaque and generate acids that decalcify enamel. Regular consumption of small amounts (about two teaspoonfuls per day) of xylitol can stop these germs and prevent tooth decay. Using a xylitol frequently, at least three times each day, eventually knocks out the Streptococcus mutans infection, reduces acid, and helps to rebuild or "remineralize" tooth surfaces.

Mothers who use xylitol during pregnancy and after delivery do not transmit decay-causing germs to their babies. Xylitol gel should also be applied to new teeth as they emerge through the gums. Blocking the Streptococcus mutans infection and mineralizing new enamel can result in long-term, possibly permanent, protection against tooth decay. Newer research shows that xylitol has promising effects for controlling gingivitis and periodontal disease.

An Easy Change

Make a simple switch to oral care products that feature xylitol. Choose the right xylitol products. The best health results have been obtained using products with high concentrations of xylitol. Most manufacturers dilute the benefits of xylitol by only using ineffective amounts. Health Food stores are good sources for the best chewing gum and mints that are 100% xylitol-sweetened. Xylitol is the only sweetener needed in sugar-free chewing gum. Likewise, toothpaste and mouthwash with sufficient xylitol do not need artificial sweeteners.

Begin Now

Let xylitol put some fun and flavor into self-care. Start by using xylitol toothpaste and mouthwash morning and night. Chew xylitol gum or mints after every meal and snack to ensure cleaner teeth and fresher breath. Establish this routine as a sweet, healthy habit that the entire family can enjoy.