Can chewing gum and eating candy be good for me? Aren’t you a dentist?

There are many studies that tell the benefits of Xylitol.  Xylitol is a natural sweetener that can be extracted from plant materials. Its sweetness can be found in some chewing gums and candies. Additionally, the granules can be used in cooking as a sugar substitute.

Xylitol works to prevent tooth decay.  How does it work? 

Xylitol inhibits the growth of the bacteria that cause cavities. It does this because these bacteria (Streptococcus mutans) cannot utilize Xylitol to grow and produce acids.

Over time with Xylitol use, the quality of the bacteria in the mouth changes and fewer and fewer decay-causing bacteria survive on tooth surfaces. Less plaque forms and the level of acids attacking the tooth surface is lowered.   Less susceptibility to decay.                  

For someone who is cavity prone, the addition of Xylitol can be beneficial.

There are other benefits as well.  Xylitol naturally stimulates saliva flow to help sooth dry mouth. Some pediatricians recommend its use because it helps to reduce ear and upper respiratory infections.  Diabetics can use Xylitol as a sugar alternative.

Please contact your physician before making any alterations in your health care routine. 

Any dental questions can gladly be answered by our office.  Please call 215-735-8844.

Keep smiling; it improves your face value!

Carl Steinberg