Dentists have long recognized sugar as a leading factor in developing cavities, gum disease, and other oral health conditions. That’s why significant research has been dedicated to creating more tooth-friendly sugar substitutes in recent years. One leading substitute is Xylitol™, a naturally-occurring sugar alcohol that looks and tastes almost exactly like traditional white sugar. The following guide explores how you can replace regular sugar with Xylitol and how it can benefit your long-term dental health outcomes.

Foods and Products That Contain Xylitol

Xylitol is a naturally-occurring compound found in many fruits, vegetables, and grains like strawberries, raspberries, oats, mushrooms, apples, carrots, and cauliflower. Xylitol is also found in birch bark and corn husks, and it’s these sources that are used to refine the Xylitol used as an ingredient in other products. 

Certain varieties of popular foods like chewing gum, candy, breath mints, puddings and gelatins, jellies and jams, peanut butter, chocolate, cereals, and baked goods contain Xylitol, as do chewable multivitamins. Additionally, your dentist may recommend using toothpaste and mouthwash containing the sweetener.

Why You Should Include Xylitol in Your Diet

Xylitol reduces the risk of dental caries and cavities primarily because it limits the growth of decay-causing bacteria like Streptococcus mutans. Because it slows the spread of these bacteria, Xylitol contributes to lower overall acidity rates in the mouth, giving oral pH levels time to rebalance and protect the teeth and gums. Chewing Xylitol gum, for example, can accelerate the production of saliva, which washes away harmful bacteria.

Additionally, sugar is high in calories, with four per gram on average. However, Xylitol has just 2.4, or 40% less than sugar. This makes it an attractive alternative to calorific sugars like sucrose and fructose for those interested in maintaining a healthy weight.

Besides switching to Xylitol, supplement your dental healthcare needs with routine services from the dentists at Dr. Mead & Dr. Houston Dentistry in Lake Havasu City, AZ. This dental practice offers a full range of dental care services, including routine examinations and cleanings to emergency and restorative care. Call (928) 855-5061 to schedule an appointment, or visit the website to learn more about them.