Want a sweet treat that helps your teeth? Our dentist in Fairfield says xylitol gum is the way to go! This sugar-free gum may help stop cavities before they even start. So, in today’s post, Dr. Gary Horblitt explains how xylitol gum keeps pesky cavities at bay and why you should chew it after meals and snacks for added cavity protection.
Finding products that are good for your teeth can be tricky. So, if you’re curious about which foods and drinks you should add to your diet or avoid, talk to Gary Horblitt, D.D.S. Our dentist in Fairfield, CT, can help you pick foods that work for your smile, not against it. Want more information about diet and dental health? Call (203) 335-1011 to schedule a check-up today!
What Is Xylitol?
Xylitol is a sweetener found in nature. It comes from plants like birch trees, corn, and certain fruits. It tastes like sugar but does not feed harmful mouth bacteria, which is great news for your teeth!
How Xylitol Gum Fights Cavities
When you chew gum with xylitol, it helps in many ways:
- It increases saliva flow.
- It washes away food and sugar.
- It keeps your mouth moist.
- It reduces bad oral bacteria by up to 90%.
Our dentist in Fairfield explains that the harmful bacteria in your mouth love sugar. But they can’t use xylitol to grow. Instead, xylitol stops bacteria from making acid that causes tooth decay.
When Should You Chew Xylitol Gum?
Try chewing gum after meals or snacks. That’s when your mouth needs help the most. Our dentist in Fairfield recommends chewing for about 20 minutes after eating.
This gives your mouth time to clean itself and make more saliva. Saliva helps protect and repair your teeth.
Is Xylitol Gum Safe?
Yes! Xylitol is safe for most people. Our dentist in Fairfield says many people use it every day.
Just don’t give it to your pets, especially dogs. It can be harmful to them.
Xylitol Gum vs. Regular Gum
Not all gum is good for your teeth. Gum with sugar feeds bacteria. That causes more acid and more cavities.
Xylitol gum is different. It protects your teeth instead of hurting them. Our dentist in Fairfield says to look for gum with xylitol as the first ingredient.
Other Tips to Fight Cavities
Xylitol gum helps, but it’s not magic. Our dentist in Fairfield reminds everyone to:
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss every day
- Visit Dr. Horblitt twice a year
- Eat less sugar
Ask Your Dentist in Fairfield About Xylitol Gum
Chewing xylitol gum is easy, fun, and good for your teeth. It’s a small change that can make a big difference. Want to try xylitol gum but not sure where to start? Ask your dentist in Fairfield at your next visit. Dr. Horblitt can help you find the right kind and use it the right way.
Request an appointment with Gary Horblitt, D.D.S., here, or call our dentist in Fairfield, CT, at (203) 335-1011 for more information.
