Dental Hygiene Products

Caries prevention: Xylitol

Xylitol is conquering the world-wide oral care market. The reason lies in the special anti-cariogenic properties of the substance. Highly concentrated Xylitol (HCX) reduces the activity of the destructive bacteria, especially the most dangerous variety, Streptococcus mutans. Thereby HCX neutralizes the pH level in the oral cavity after starchy food consumption, and it reduces bacterial plaque on the tooth surface. Furthermore, HCX fights the discomfort of dry mouth and enhances remineralization of tooth enamel.

Some words on Xylitol

Xylitol is a naturally occurring polyol (sugar alcohol) that has gained much attention as an anti-caries agent. Most importance quality feature is the xylitol con-centration. Whereas usual xylitol concentration of chewing gums varies from 4% - 37%, HCX gums contain 66% of xylitol. With such high concentration, the desired cariostatic effect of Xylitol can apply.

For further reading on properties of xylitol, please click here.

How much xylitol should one take per day?

Clinical studies have shown that a daily intake of 5-10 grams of xylitol is needed to benefit from the anti-caries properties of xylitol. With HCX chewing gums, a total of 6 pieces a day (after meals and snacks, before bed time) provide optimal efficacy. Oral hygiene should be accompanied by a personal hygiene routine of brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups.

Adverse effects

There are no absolute contraindications for the use of xylitol but patients with insulin dependant diabetes mellitus must account for the calories. Within the European Union, there is a recommendation that the daily intake should be less than 3 grams per day in children under the age of three years.

Concentration of xylitol in various chewing gums

Product	Xylitol (%)
HCX Xylitol gum	66%
V6 Dental with fluoride	4%
Wrigleys Extra	33%
Wrigleys Extra professional	37%
Xylifresh	65%

 

Conclusion

The use of HPX gums is a modern and efficient way to prevent tooth decay. Such cariostatic effect of xylitol in high concentration (in-take of around 4g of xylitol per day) has been scientifically proven.

HCX gums: Features
	High concentration of xylitol (66%)
	100% xylitol sweetener. Contains no other sweeteners.
	German scientific advisory board by dentists
	Combinations with other active ingredients /flavours
	Full documentation on product and claims
	Individual packaging solutions