I’m Ira Handschuh DDS of The Dental Design Center in White Plains. My patients often ask me if chewing xylitol gum is an effective substitute for tooth brushing and regular dental exams.
Before I answer that question, let me tell you a little bit about xylitol:
Xylitol is a natural sweetener that was first discovered in birch tree bark but is also found in many fruits and vegetables. Unlike most other sweeteners (natural or synthetic), xylitol is actually useful for your teeth.
Numerous clinical studies have shown that xylitol inhibits the growth of the bacteria that initiates tooth decay. It also helps alleviate plaque and strengthens tooth enamel.
Xylitol has other benefits, as well. Because it is low on the glycemic index, many of my patients with diabetes enjoy it as a healthy alternative to sugar. For my patients that live with frequent dry mouth, I recommend xylitol gum or mints to stimulate saliva production while protecting against dental caries.
Now, back to the golden question. Is xylitol gum just as effective as brushing your teeth and seeing your family dentist regularly? Absolutely not! If you cannot brush your teeth after a meal, chewing xylitol gum for five or ten minutes is probably a good idea. However, you should still brush your teeth thoroughly (with a soft brush) after meals and get twice-yearly exams and dental cleanings.
At The Dental Design Center, our goal is to keep your smile healthy and beautiful for life by preventing dental troubles before they start. If you postpone dental visits until you feel pain, you risk losing teeth and most certainly will require more extensive treatment than if the issue was caught earlier.
Is it time for a dental exam? Call us at 914-683-5898 to book an appointment. Our efficient team is waiting to take care of all your dental needs.
