Most everybody realizes how important their teeth are. Learning that sugar and acids can rot our teeth was a lesson we learned long ago. Yet, there are ways to eat all kinds of things with sweet and rich flavors without being afraid of the consequences.

 

It's possible that xylitol is the answer. Xylitol is made from the same things sugar is. It is derived from wood, and is commonly referred to as wood sugar. By just looking at it or tasting it, you would never know that it's not sugar. However, xylitol has some benefits over sugar. Reason number one is that it won't give you cavities.

 

Scientists from Finland revealed this in a study nearly fifty years ago. Since, many have performed the same study, confirming Finland's results. Most dentists agree that when given the choice between xylitol or sugar, the clear cut choice should be xylitol.

 

In regards to keeping your teeth healthy, xylitol does several things. Unlike sugar, gum with xylitol is not fermentable by any of the bacteria that live in oral cavities. Cavities thrive off this bacteria and the bacteria thrives off sugar.

 

The breakdown of tooth enamel often weakens the tooth. Sugar causes a reduction in pH levels that weaken the enamel. However, xylitol increases your pH levels, promoting the remineralization of enamel and giving your teeth more protection.

 

Weakening the enamel isn't the only thing sugary bacteria can do to your teeth. The sugar substitute won't allow bacteria to thrive to the point where the plaque created in the mouth is diminished, limiting the risk of dental problems.

 

More scientific studies have also been done with interesting results. In particular, documented studies show an impressive result from female users of xylitol. The limited bacteria living in the female body can result in the transmission of a limited amount of bacteria that attack teeth in their unborn children.

 

There are too many products to name that sweeten with xylitol as opposed to sugar. Xylitol is used in the making of a variety of candy. Breath mints use the alternative sweetener as well. Even cough drops and loads of chewing gum companies have made the switch. Xylitol mints sweeteners are even available in powder form to add to your morning coffee.

 

There are a great deal of sugar substitutes. However, there aren't many that are both natural and beneficial to your dental health. It has no side effects and is extremely low in calories. For a happy mouth that includes less cavities, less tooth decay, less bad breath and stronger teeth, make sure to get your xylitol from anywhere you can.