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There is more to a healthy smile than just white teeth. On a daily basis our teeth face a constant onslaught from bacteria and the acids that they produce. The warm, moist environment in our mouths makes an ideal breeding ground for these bacteria -- most notably Streptococcus mutans -- and with the presence of refined carbohydrates (particularly sugar) from our diets; the bacteria have an almost endless food supply.
As these bacteria break down carbohydrates, they produce harsh acids. Furthermore, they create a sticky biofilm that makes it hard for our saliva to wash them away. This biofilm holds the acids in place and begins the process of de-calcifying our teeth. In simpler terms, it begins the process of tooth decay.
Now, you may be tempted to say that you know all about tooth decay and the ways to prevent it -- regular tooth brushing, flossing and using fluoride. But despite modern dentistry's best prevention efforts, tooth decay persists as a serious worldwide public health problem. Even in highly developed countries such as the United States, tooth decay remains the most common chronic childhood disease. And it's not just a problem for kids -- estimates suggest that one quarter of the adult population has untreated tooth decay.
The direct cost associated with dental caries is high, and indirect costs such as time lost from school or work and physical inconvenience and discomfort are an additional burden. The newest statistics even indicate an alarming increase in tooth decay rates. Clearly, something more is needed.
That "something more" is Xylitol.
Since the combination of bacteria and a ready supply of carbohydrates causes the problem of tooth decay, the logical approach would be to find a way to get rid of the bacteria or to keep the bacteria from being able to use the carbohydrates from the diet. Xylitol is just such a carbohydrate that can achieve both goals.
Xylitol is a naturally-occurring sweetener that is found in fruits and vegetables, and is continually generated by human metabolism. With the same sweetness as regular sugar, xylitol has been used as a preferred sweetener in the diabetic diet for many years since it doesn't interfere with blood sugar levels. Recently xylitol has gained popularity because of its other health-promoting properties as well.
During World War II, consumers in Finland and other Scandinavian countries had a hard time getting a regular supply of sugar. They discovered that xylitol could be processed from birch wood and substituted for regular sugar in baking and for other sweetening uses -- most notably for sweetening chewing gum and mints. Researchers noted a dramatic reduction in tooth decay rates with those who used xylitol. Further research into how xylitol improved dental health showed two key effects: 1) bacteria were unable to break-down xylitol into acid as they do other carbohydrates and 2) xylitol interfered with the ability of bacteria to adhere to tissues in the mouth and upper respiratory tract.
One surprising finding is that even small amounts of xylitol can stop tooth decay. Individuals with relatively poor diets can enjoy dental protection with as little as 6 grams (a rounded teaspoonful) of xylitol each day. That small amount of xylitol is enough to suppress the acid-producing bacteria, inhibit plaque formation, and promote remineralization of the tooth enamel.
Clinical trials have been conducted worldwide over the past the 30 years and have conclusively demonstrated xylitol's value in prevention of tooth decay. Many of these studies have been reported in professional dental journals, leading dentists and dental hygienists to begin recommending xylitol to their patients.
The xylitol effect is long-lasting and has led to improved dental health even years after the trials have been completed. These trials also helped define the best ways to use xylitol to achieve the greatest benefits. Several considerations are involved with maximizing xylitol benefits.
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