Commentary -- Xylitol: A dental phenomenon Published Dec. 3, 2010 By Staff Sgt. Lynnette Pace 47th Medical Operations Squadron, registered dental hygienist LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Dental caries, also known as cavities, is one of the most common infectious diseases known to mankind." property="og:description" />Dental caries, also known as cavities, is one of the most common infectious diseases known to mankind. Although dental caries is largely preventable, it is the most common chronic disease of children ages five to 17. When high amounts of sugar, especially sucrose, are mixed with certain bacteria found in the mouth, acid is produced that can cause cavities. We all know it may be impractical and nearly impossible to completely avoid sugar. However, a more realistic solution is to limit the amount of sucrose ingested and maintain good oral hygiene by using fluoride and sugar substitutes, such as xylitol, to control the bacteria that cause cavities. Xylitol is a natural sugar found in plants and is used as a sugar substitute. German and French chemists discovered it in the late 19th century. The dental significance of xylitol was discovered in Finland in the early 1970's when scientist showed it could prevent cavities. Xylitol has the ability to reduce dental plaque formation by making plaque less adhesive and neutralizing plaque acids. Xylitol has been shown to reduce cavities by up to 80 percent and assist in the remineralization of tooth enamel. Studies using xylitol as either a sugar substitute or in small amounts as a dietary supplement have demonstrated a dramatic reduction in new tooth decay, along with potential termination and even reversal of existing cavities. Xylitol is added to some mints, chewing gum, tablets, toothpastes, oral rinses, nasal sprays and even candy. It is not necessary to replace all sweeteners to get the dental benefits of xylitol. Look for xylitol sweetened products that encourage chewing or sucking to keep the xylitol in contact with your teeth. The best products are those that use xylitol as the primary sweetener. The recommended dose for the maximum prevention of cavities is seven to 20 grams per day, divided into several doses in candies or chewing gum. If xylitol is used only occasionally or even as often as once as day, it may not be effective, regardless of the amount. The consistent use of xylitol at least three and preferably five times every day is more effective. The best time to use xylitol is immediately after eating and clearing the mouth by swishing with water. Another recommendation is to replace ordinary chewing gum, breath mints or breath spray that you use between meals with comparable xylitol products. There is no known toxic level for xylitol and the only issue reported is mild diarrhea or slight cramping for sensitive people from taking large amounts of xylitol at one time. The discomfort usually disappears as the body adjusts to the amount consumed. Xylitol is safe for everyone to use. It has not been shown to raise blood pressure or blood glucose levels as most sugar substitutes do. Children can take it and should not notice any difference in the taste of candy or gum that contains xylitol instead of sucrose. Xylitol is easy to implement into any lifestyle. It fits right in with the most frantic schedules. You don't need to change your normal routine to use xylitol. For more information, please contact the Laughlin dental clinic at 298-6332.