Benefits of Xylitol For Teeth
If you love the taste of sweet things but don’t want to damage your teeth, it’s important to know about xylitol. This special ingredient comes with some unique benefits.
What Is Xylitol?
Xylitol is a type of naturally-occurring substance found in certain plants. Xylitol is a compound that stimulates the sweet taste buds on the tongue without causing health problems like sugar. There are multiple types of Xylitol, including:
- Birch: This xylitol is made from birch trees. It’s typically GMO-free and comes in smaller grains.
- Corn: Corn xylitol is affordable but tends to form larger lumps.
- Plum: Xylitol naturally occurs in plums, but this type of xylitol is very inefficient to extract.
How Xylitol Affects the Earth
Xylitol tends to be one of the most eco-friendly forms of sweeteners. Unlike sugar, it can be produced without pesticides or GMO substances. Generally, xylitol manufacturers practice sustainable methods that avoid damaging air, water, soil, plants, or animals. Manufacturing xylitol also uses less waste and toxic byproducts.
Does Xylitol Heal Teeth?
2017 research found that xylitol helps to inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria in the mouth. Since bacteria cannot use xylitol as an energy source, they cannot grow in the mouth and damage your teeth. Ultimately, this creates an environment where your teeth can stay healthy.
The Benefits of Xylitol for Teeth
Reduced Risk of Cavities
When a person uses xylitol, the amount of bad bacteria in their mouth is reduced by up to 75%. This keeps bacteria from eating away at your tooth enamel. People who use xylitol have less of a risk of cavities and tooth decay which is also called dental caries.
Less Gum Disease
Research has also found Xylitol reduces inflammation of the gums. This can stop gums from being red, sore, or swollen, and it lowers gum disease risks.
Reduced Tooth Sensitivity
People who use xylitol have a lower chance of experiencing tooth sensitivity. This means you’re less likely to feel pain when biting into something hot, cold, or sour.
Increased Calcium Absorption
A 2001 study found that those who consumed xylitol were able to absorb more calcium. This is very important because calcium is the key to stronger teeth. This mineral helps to build strong enamel that’s less likely to crack.
How to Use Xylitol for Teeth
There are many ways to add xylitol to your diet because many manufacturers make foods that use xylitol as a sweetener. You can add xylitol to your tea to sweeten it or find gums with xylitol.
Tooth Care Products that Have Xylitol
You can get even more of the benefits of xylitol by adding it to your tooth care routine. When you are looking for toothpaste and mouthwash, pick ones that have xylitol in them. This helps to fight bacteria while letting you enjoy a great-tasting product.