05 Oct The Dental Benefits of Chewing Xylitol Gum
Out of all the dental products that claim to be healthy and teeth-friendly, how do you know which ones to use? Simply put, it’s best to consult our staff at Prescott Dentistry. But we can tell you about one compound that has been proven to be effective in helping your teeth: xylitol. It’s been around for awhile, but many people are still unaware that this plant-based sweetener packs a powerful punch when it comes to healthy teeth. Read on to discover the dental benefits of chewing xylitol gum.
What Is Xylitol?
Xylitol is a sugar substitute that is becoming more popular as a sweetener for drinks, chewing gum, and even some candies. It is considered to be a dentist-approved substance that has many health benefits. Xylitol is 100% natural, and completely safe for humans to consume. Beware though, it’s not safe for pets—so you’ll want keep xylitol toothpaste and gum away from your beloved dog or cat.
Why Is Xylitol Good for Your Teeth?
Simply put, xylitol kills bad bacteria and helps prevent plaque buildup. Since plaque is the number one cause of cavities and gum disease, this is a very good thing!
If you’re looking to add xylitol to your diet, try picking up an American Dental Association-approved, sugar-free gum that uses it as a sweetener. Chewing gum after meals produces saliva, which helps wash bad bacteria and food debris out of your mouth. So chewing xylitol gum will further annihilate that bad bacteria and give you the double-impact of a second defense for your teeth. Chewing gum is the easiest and healthiest way to add xylitol to your teeth-cleaning routine. Sugar-free xylitol gum is most likely available in the gum racks at the checkout of your favorite grocery store.
Holistic Dental Care in Prescott, Arizona
The benefits of chewing xylitol gum have been shown to be helpful in keeping your teeth healthy. However, that doesn’t mean it can take the place of a faithful brushing and flossing routine. Added to your regular dental hygiene regimen, xylitol can be helpful in combating bacteria buildup, aka plaque. So keep up the good work! Brush twice daily, floss once daily, and schedule dental cleanings with our Prescott Dentistry office every six months. And, if you like, chew on a stick of xylitol gum after meals.