We have always been taught that candy and sugars are bad
for your teeth and will lead to cavities. This has not changed. Traditional
sugar can definitely lead to tooth decay when not used in moderation and when
homecare is not up to par. However, there is a new sugar substitute called
xylitol that does not lead to tooth decay. It is an all natural substance that
is commonly derived from renewable resources like corn cobs. Even more
encouraging than the fact that it is does not cause cavities is that research
has shown it may even help fight tooth decay.
One of the best applications we have found so far for
xylitol is for helping patients who have reduced saliva flow. There are many
medications that reduce the amount of saliva produced and can even alter the
cavity fighting properties of your saliva. To compensate for the dry mouth
feeling, people will often use candy to stimulate saliva. Unfortunately, this
can lead to cavities because of the sugar present in the candy. This is where
the xylitol candy can prove so useful. People can still use candy to stimulate
saliva flow, but not have the negative effects brought on by traditional
sugars.
There are also a number of different types of xylitol
products. There are hard candies, gum, simple sweetener, toothpastes, gel and
even rinses. So far, the best results we have been through using the hard
candies. There is a higher concentration of xylitol in the candy and the
prolonged exposure of the candy in the mouth has proved to be more effective.
There is still more to be learned about the potential
benefits of xylitol vs. sugar, but so far we have been pleased with what we
have seen. While I don’t believe it will ever replace fluoride as a powerful
cavity fighting tool, I think it can be an excellent adjunct to good homecare
if used properly. Feel free to contact us about how it may be helpful for you
and go to www.xylitol.org for more
information.
Lee T. Brown, DDS
Brown and Kupper, DDS Inc.
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