What is Xylitol?
Xylitol is a sugar-alcohol that’s extracted from sources like fibrous plants, birch trees, fruits, and vegetables. Xylitol is slightly less sweet than regular sugar and is commonly used as a sugar alternative. Many patients who are conscious of their dietary intake prefer xylitol for the sweet taste they crave without the downsides sugar can have on their health. At our San Luis Obispo practice, we offer Spry xylitol products to let you take advantage of the many benefits.
The Benefits of Xylitol
Because xylitol is a non-fermentable sugar alternative, the mouth can’t break it down into acids that contribute to tooth decay. Xylitol has also been known to inhibit the growth of Streptococcus mutans and Porphyromonas gingivalis, two types of oral bacterium which are responsible for plaque and gingivitis.
On top of its oral health advantages, xylitol has a low glycemic index, which results in more stable blood sugar levels. People who are diabetic can benefit greatly from foods, drinks, and dental products that rely on xylitol for sweetening.
Xylitol increases saliva production, which helps combat dry mouth. A dry mouth is more susceptible to tooth decay because the components in saliva help maintain a neutral pH balance in the mouth. Less saliva means a more acidic environment, which allows bacteria to thrive and contributes to decay.
Clinical studies demonstrate that incorporating a mere 8 to 10 grams of xylitol into your daily routine will allow you to enjoy these benefits.
Xylitol Products Offered By Dr. Ramirez
At Dr. Ramirez’s office, we’re offering three new Spry xylitol products to help you combat dry mouth and tooth decay while refreshing your breath.
- Sugar-Free Spry Chewing Gum
- Sugar-Free Spry Mints
- Sugar-Free Spry Oral Mist Spray
These products give you an efficient and simple way to get your recommended daily dose of xylitol anywhere, anytime you like.
Frequently Asked Questions
The FDA has approved xylitol for use in food and drinks. For those who are new to xylitol, consuming too much at once may lead to diarrhea and/or gas. However, this risk is usually associated with doses of 30-40 grams or higher. You can avoid side effects such as these by using xylitol in moderation or slowly increasing the amount of xylitol you take over time.
It’s recommended that you ingest 8-10 grams of xylitol every day. If you are new to using xylitol, use it in moderation to avoid upsetting your stomach. Spry xylitol products are a good starting point for those who are new to the compound, because they can be administered in small doses.
According to American and Canadian food safety departments, xylitol is a safe sweetener for people who are pregnant. As long as it’s used in recommended amounts, there should be no negative side effects.
Try Xylitol to Fight Dry Mouth, Tooth Decay, & Gum Disease
Xylitol is a simple, effective method of preventive dental care that can help you fight oral disease. We provide Spry xylitol products that you can use to freshen your breath and keep your smile healthy. To learn more about how our xylitol products can benefit your oral health, call our San Luis Obispo office at (805) 549-8483.
