I’m Brian McKay DDS of Advanced Cosmetic Implant & Laser Dentistry in Seattle. 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 beneficial for your teeth.
Numerous clinical studies have established that xylitol prohibits the growth of the bacteria that initiates cavities. It also diminishes 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 experience frequent dry mouth, I recommend xylitol gum or mints to stimulate saliva production while preserving it against decay.
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 Advanced Cosmetic Implant & Laser Dentistry, our goal is to keep your smile healthy and beautiful for life by preventing dental problems 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 206-381-3055 to book an appointment. Our friendly and thorough team is waiting to take care of all your dental needs.
Contact Advanced Cosmetic Implant & Laser Dentistry:
206-381-3055
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
600 Broadway Ste 600
Seattle, WA
98122
