Why Use Xylitol?

The average american eats 31 teaspoons of sugar per day. These sugary foods attack our teeth, create plaque formation and increase tooth decay. It is nearly impossible to cut all sugar out of our diets. So, a more reasonable approach would be to limit the amount of sugar and incorporate xylitol into our diet. 

Xylitol is five-carbon sugar alcohol. However, sugar alcohols are neither sugar nor alcohol, but are carbohydrates without the harmful effects. Xylitol is extracted from Birch Trees or corn cobs, but also occurs naturally in our bodies. An average adult produces 5-15 grams of Xylitol during normal metabolism. Unfortunately, the process occurs in the gut and therefore has no oral benefits. 

So what are the oral benefits of Xylitol?

• Helps prevent tooth decay by reducing plaque formation
• Blocks the acids that demineralize tooth enamel 
• Stops the growth of bacteria that produce acid
• Minimizes gingival inflammation
• Has 40% fewer calories than sugar- glycemic index of 7
• Raises the pH of the mouth to be more alkaline

Most of our carbohydrate sugars are based on a six-carbon molecule chain. These units link together and multiply; oral bacteria use these chains as their primary food source. Once eaten and digested, bacteria secrete an acid which creates a primary spot for plaque to accumulate. This continual secretion of acid onto our teeth daily begins to wear at our enamel, softening it and creating a hole. Xylitol works by its unique five-carbon chain and does not connect with other molecules. Oral bacteria can not digest this molecule and die rather than secreting the acid that is so harmful to our teeth. 

How do we use Xylitol?

Recent research has suggested that it is not the amount of xylitol daily but rather the frequency. Researchers have stated to "Strive For Five". This slogan recommends getting 5 exposures of 100% Xylitol spread throughout the day. Rather than thinking of "how much" think of "how often". There are several Xylitol containing products to incorporate such as toothpaste, mouthwash, nasal spray, gum, mints and candy. 

Strive For Five!

• Upon awakening use Xylitol toothpaste and mouthwash.
• Throughout the day use Xylitol gum or mints.
• Craving something sweet? Have a few pieces of Xylitol candy.
• Rub a small amount of Xylitol tooth gel on toddlers teeth or binkies.
• Before bedtime use Xylitol toothpaste and mouthwash. 
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To buy 100% Xylitol containing products visit Xlear.com OR just visit our office! We offer a wide range of products that will suit your needs!

Although dental decay is largely preventable, it is still considered the most infectious disease among children and adults. By incorporating Xylitol into our daily routines and diets we can reduce tooth decay in ourselves and in our families.

Sources

http://www.rdhmag.com

http://www.xylitol.org

-A Healthy Body Starts With a Healthy Smile-