The prevalence of cavities in our children today is a bigger problem than ever. Pediatric dentistry is making strives to find more ways to combat the increase. Regular dental exams and home care will continue to be essential preventative factors, but a fairly new product has been added to the arsenal.

Xylitol is a sugar substitute that has been found to prevent tooth decay, and in some cases even reverse it. Xylitol has been used successfully in European countries for some time but is relatively new to the United States market. It can be found in various products such as toothpastes, mints, chewable vitamins, and floss. It is as sweet as sugar, so children like the taste. But unlike sugar, Xylitol won’t stimulate the bacteria in the mouth to produce cavity causing acids.

Recommended dosages range from 6-10 grams per day, and should be taken after meals and snacks. If your child has sweet snack during the day for instance, he should follow it up with a piece of sugar free gum. Chewing the gum will also increase the flow of saliva which will benefit the tooth enamel.

Xylitol is an excellent substitute for sugar, or Splenda for baking purposes. Since it contains the same quality of sweetness as natural sugar, measuring isn’t an issue.

Kaelin Pediatric Dentistry, is conveniently located on Parker Square Drive. One of Dr Kaelin’s main goals is to reduce the number of cavities for her patients. Call for your first appointment – 303-805-8266.