Xylitol and Your Teeth

You may have noticed that many gums are now advertising that they have Xylitol. What is Xylitol? Pure xylitol looks and tastes like sugar. It has been used in foods since the 1960's. On food labels it is classified broadly as a carbohydrate or more narrowly as polyol. It is a popular sweetener for the diabetic diet in some countries. In the U.S., xylitol is approved as a food additive in unlimited quantities for foods with special dietary purposes.

Over decades of testing in widely different conditions confirm that xylitol is the best sweetener for teeth. It reduces tooth decay rates both in high-risk groups (those with poor hygiene and poor nutrition) and in low risk groups. Sugarfree chewing gums and candies made with xylitol as the principal sweetener have received official endorsements from six national dental associations.

Our bodies produce up to 15 grams of xylitol from other food sources using established energy pathways. It is not a strange or artificial substance, but a normal part of everyday metabolism. Xylitol is widely distributed in nature in small amounts. Some of the best sources are fruits, berries, mushrooms, lettuce and corn cobs. One cup of raspberries contains less than on gram of xylitol. In the amounts needed to prevent tooth decay (less than 15 grams per day) xylitol is safe for everyone.

Chewing is a natural process and chewing gums provide some exercise lacking in a refined diet. If chewing is uncomfortable for you, xylitol mints or candies can also stimulate saliva, the natural tooth protector.