XYLITOL- the sweet alternative by Dona Fujioka, R.D.H.

Dental decay is the most common infectious disease that we’ve been battling for years; especially in children. Sugar is mostly to blame. Advances in dentistry have helped prevent decay but it doesn’t change the fact that we cannot avoid sugar in our diets. Limiting sugar consumption is a more realistic approach.


Xylitol, which is a sweet alternative, offers many dental benefits. Incorporating it into our diets will help prevent decay. Xylitol is a five-carbon sugar alcohol compound. They are carbohydrates that resemble sugar, but without its harmful effects. Xylitol is NOT an artificial sweetener. Artificial sweeteners are based on a six-carbon monosaccharide unit, like fructose and glucose. Streptococcus mutans, bacteria that causes decay, uses these units as a food source. They excrete waste, which produce plaque biofilm that can lead to tooth decay. Xylitol, on the other hand, is not a food source for Streptococcus mutans. Instead, xylitol blocks its harmful effects and builds protective factors. Xylitol is a natural component found in plants, vegetables, and berry-type fruits, such as strawberries and raspberries. It can also be manufactured from sugar and starches. Despite its presence in plants and vegetables, we do not eat enough of these foods to obtain sufficient amounts of xylitol to gain dental benefits. Because of this, research continues to find ways to deliver xylitol into our diets.

Currently, xylitol is obtained in the form of toothpaste, mouthwash, candies, mints, and chewing gum. It has been proven that frequent consumption is more effective than the amount consumed. It is more effective if consumed throughout the day.

With all the knowledge about xylitol, consumers are encouraged to use it on a regular basis. To get the maximum benefit, the product should contain 100% xylitol. It should be the first ingredient to obtain the greatest dental benefit.

SOURCE: Wonders of Xylitol by Susan Clark RDHEF
RDH Magazine