The Turku Sugar Studies established that surprisingly small amounts of xylitol can dramatically reduce the incidence of tooth decay. Today, by far the most common application worldwide for xylitol is in chewing gum. Gum is considered an ideal delivery system to get xylitol in contact with tooth surfaces over a period of time.

Chewing gum can be problematic for those with jaw joint problems and in situations where residue is a nuisance. Subsequent research has demonstrated similar dental benefits in other products that promote chewing or sucking where xylitol is present as the sole or principal sweetener. Xylitol candy was used effectively to prevent tooth decay in several international trials including Russia, Hungary, and Estonia.

Other than chewing gum, the best xylitol products where xylitol can be in frequent or prolonged contact with the teeth. Candy tablets can be almost entirely compressed xylitol. Breath mints, nutritional supplements, chewable vitamins and syrup medications can be made with a very high percentage of xylitol.

Xylitol is becoming a more popular ingredient to sweeten in a wide range of oral hygiene products. Breath mints and dry mouth sprays are convenient vehicles to frequently deliver small amounts of xylitol throughout the day.

An interesting innovation is a thick xylitol syrup or tooth gel. This product contains a high concentration of xylitol combined with a soluble calcium source. It was originally designed to prevent tooth decay in primary (baby) teeth, but can also provide a cosmetic enhancement by mineralizing adult teeth.

Fluoride toothpaste was found to be significantly more protective against tooth decay with the addition of at least 10% xylitol. This is very important because we recommend using xylitol at least three, and preferably five times each day. Simply brushing with xylitol toothpaste morning and night automatically gives us two uses.

When selecting these products, take a close look at the ingredients. Make certain that xylitol is the first sweetener listed on the label.

-- by Dr. John Peldyak