Xylitol

Global acceptance of the natural sweetener Xylitol was discovered in Germany in
1890; however, it did not receive much attention until 1970, when studies evaluating the effectiveness of xylitol on the reduction of dental plaque were conducted in Turku, Finland.  Completed with the support of the World Health Organization, the so-called Turku sugar studies looked at the differences between subjects who consumed diets in which sucrose was completely replaced with either xylitol or fructose.  Results showed a significant reduction in caries activity among those participants on the xylitol diet.

In 1963, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved xylitol for “special dietary purposes,” and the naturally recognized as safe.”  In addition, the use of xylitol in caries prevention is supported by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.

Oral Health Benefits of Xylitol

•    Promotes tooth re-mineralization
•    Decreases prevalence of dental caries
•    Reduces numbers of cariogenic bacteria (Streptococcus mutans, Helicobacter pylon)
•    Lowers plaque levels
•    Reduces occurrence of xerostomia (dry mouth)
•    Enables more neutral oral pH
•    Lessens incidence of erosion
•    May reduce gingival inflammation
•    Improves oral malodor
•    Limits pathogenic bacteria levels transmitted from parents/caregivers to children