Our Comstock Park and Rockford area patients often ask us if chewing xylitol gum is an effective substitute for tooth brushing and regular dental exams.
Before we answer that question, let us tell you 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 good for your teeth. Numerous clinical studies have demonstrated that xylitol prevents the growth of the bacteria that initiates decay. It also reduces plaque and strengthens tooth enamel.
Xylitol has other benefits, as well. Because it is low on the glycemic index, many of our Grand Rapids diabetic patients enjoy it as a healthy alternative to sugar. If our Rockford MI cosmetic dentistry patients complain about frequent dry mouth, we recommend Xylitol gum or mints to stimulate saliva production without promoting tooth decay.
Now, is xylitol gum just as effective as brushing your teeth and seeing your Rockford MI 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 regular oral exams and deep cleanings at your Comstock Park dentistry office to take care of your dental health.
At Stewart & Hull, our goal is to keep your smile healthy and beautiful for life by preventing dental problems before they start. If you postpone Comstock Park dental visits until you feel pain, you risk losing teeth and most certainly will require more extensive treatment than if the problem was caught earlier. Is it time for a dental exam? Call us at 616-827-7019 to book an appointment. Our very friendly and thorough staff is waiting to take care of all your general and cosmetic dental needs.
