Xylitol is a natural sugar substitute that is shown to reduce the risk of caries along with other health benefits including having a much lower glycemic index and calorie count then sugar.  We are now commonly suggesting our patients to be adding xylitol to their daily oral hygiene routine as there is clinical research that supports its use. It is recommended to get the health benefits of xylitol we need at least 5 grams of xylitol and 5 exposures throughout the day.  Xyltiol is available in: Chewing gum, Mints, Candies, Chocolate, Jelly, Sweeteners, Toothpastes, Mouthrinses, and Lozenges!

•  www.nuvorain.com (lozenges)
•  www.drjohns.com (candies, xylitol sweetener, chocolates, gum)
• www.xlear.com (gum, sweetener, candies, toothpaste, mouthrinse)
• www.carifree.com (gum, toothpaste, mouthrinse) 

•            Make sure to look at the label- xylitol should be the first sugar substitute listed, if not there is probably a very low concentration. 
•       Keep a pack of gum in your car and chew a piece to and from work.
•            Add a xylitol sweetener packet to a bottle of water- now you have a Cavity Fighting drink that can help with your sweet tooth!  Sip on this throughout the day.
•       Use these sugar substitutes in your daily cup of coffee to turn that acidic drink to a tooth strengthening liquid! 

•  Xylitol can cause upset stomach if taken in excess- this varies with individuals.  Clinical studies show levels in excess of 15g but individuals may vary.
• All dogs and other pets should not have access to these products as it can cause death of these animals.  They do not process the enzymes needed to process this sugar. 

Labels: Dentistry, East Lansing, Health, Lansing, Xylitol