Have you found yourself searching “benefits of xylitol for teeth”? This popular sugar substitute has been boasted to not only taste great, but improve your oral health. But is this actually true?

In this article, we will get into what xylitol actually is, what it does for your mouth, and how it can improve your dental hygiene.

What is Xylitol?

Xylitol is a naturally occurring sugar alcohol that produces a similarly sweet flavor to sugar, but doesn’t affect the body in the same way. It’s unclear when it was first discovered, but during the sugar shortages amidst World War 2, Finnish scientists began to mass-produce xylitol to use as a replacement.

In the 1970s, they discovered the health benefits of xylitol for teeth. They noticed that it was insulin-independent, so it was safe for diabetics, and it helped to reduce cavities. This is because xylitol can kill the bacteria that is often linked to plaque build-up and tooth decay.

Since then, xylitol has been a more popular ingredient in sugar-free foods and dental products for its pleasant flavor and numerous benefits.

How Xylitol Benefits Your Teeth

There are a few ways in which xylitol can actually be beneficial for your dental health.

1. Reduces Harmful Bacteria

Streptococcus mutans, the primary bacteria that causes cavities, produce acid when you consume sugar. However, xylitol cannot be metabolized by these bacteria. This means that when you have xylitol, the bacteria will try to ingest it and be prevented from consuming other glucose. This essentially “starves” the bacteria, thereby protecting your teeth.

2. Increases Saliva Production

Saliva is essential for your dental health. It helps to neutralize the acids in your mouth and wash away both food particles and bacteria. Xylitol encourages saliva production and maintains a well-hydrated mouth.

3. Prevents Cavities

Because of its ability to inhibit bacterial growth and activity, using xylitol for teeth regularly can help reduce the chances of tooth decay by up to 80%, according to various studies. This makes xylitol an effective tool for long-term oral health. 

4. Strengthens Teeth

Xylitol promotes the remineralization of tooth enamel due to its ability to absorb calcium and restore essential minerals to the teeth. This helps strengthen your teeth’s enamel, making it more resistant to decay and erosion.

5. Increased Collagen

Besides some of the main benefits of xylitol for teeth, there are some non-dental benefits. Some studies have linked the consumption of xylitol to increased collagen production. Because collagen helps with skin elasticity, more collagen could result in healthier-looking skin and stronger muscles and bones.

6. Reduced Infections

Your mouth is connected to your ears and your nose, which means that your oral health can impact other parts of your body. Since xylitol can reduce the impact of bad bacteria, this can minimize the risk of other infections, improving and contributing to your overall health.

How to Incorporate Xylitol into Your Dental Routine

Curious as to how to introduce xylitol into your dental or daily routine? Here are some common ways to integrate it to get the most benefits from them.

• Chewing Sugar-Free Gum
  You may have seen a number of gum brands advertising their “sugar-free” gums. Most of these use xylitol as the sugar alternative. For an easy and tasty method to introduce xylitol to your body, consider chewing these sugar-free gums.
  
• Xylitol Mints or Lozenges
  You may be able to find some mints or lozenges that have xylitol as an ingredient. This can help bring about the benefits of xylitol for your teeth.
  
• Using Xylitol Toothpaste & Mouthwash
  Many dentists and oral hygienists recommend using xylitol for teeth cleanings. Many dental products, like toothpaste or mouthwash, include xylitol for sweetening and its cleaning benefits. Often brands will advertise their products as including xylitol, but you can also check the ingredients list.
  
• Xylitol as a Sugar Substitute
  To create diabetic- and diet-friendly options, xylitol is used instead of regular cane sugar in packaged foods. Although xylitol is found naturally in some fruits and vegetables, you can also incorporate xylitol-based foods into your diet.

Potential Concerns & Precautions

Though the benefits of xylitol tend to outweigh the negative side effects, it’s still important to be aware of some of the potential risks. 

• Gastrointestinal Effects – If xylitol is consumed in large quantities, you can run the risk of some GI issues; xylitol has a mild laxative effect, so it can cause bloating or diarrhea. To minimize the negative effects, introduce xylitol into your diet gradually.
  
• Toxic to Pets – Xylitol is highly toxic to pets, causing dangerous drops in blood sugar levels to dogs. If you have pets, it’s a good idea to keep any xylitol products far out of reach.

Your Dental Health as a Priority

Not only is it a great sugar substitute, but there are significant health benefits of xylitol for teeth. This means that simply by incorporating certain toothpastes, foods, gums, or mints into your routine, you can have a smile that is healthy and confident.

We at Sunrise Dental care for your oral hygiene and want to help you feel the best you can. For comprehensive cleanings and dental care, reach out to schedule an appointment today!