November Newsletter

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Welcome Everybody!

In this issue: Everything you wanted to know about Chewing Gum

Here is an article that appeared in the Health Mailbox section of the 10-31-06 Wall Street Journal.  As much as we pride ourselves in our office on focusing on dental restorative technology, I would be the first to extol the benefits of PREVENTION in every aspect of health care. 

Q: To help keep my teeth clean between brushings, I chew sugarless gum, but I am concerned about many of the ingredients.  Can you provide information on sorbitol, xylitol, and mannitol?  What are these and are they harmful at all?  E.W.

 A:  Sorbitol, xylitol, and mannitol are sugar alcohols derived from fruits, vegetables or woody plants.  They are commonly used as sugar substitutes in chewing gum and other diet products and don’t actually contain alcohol.  If you haven’t had any health problems from chewing the gum, you don’t need to worry.  In the doses found in gum and other sugarless products, there aren’t usually any side effects from these sweeteners.  In large doses not typically found in foods, the sweeteners can have a laxative effect and cause gastrointestinal problems.  And some individuals may be more sensitive than others, so be sure to check with your physician if you think you might be sensitive to these ingredients.

Xylitol (as found in Orbit, some Trident, and some other chewing gums) is particularly interesting because of its potential health benefits.  Xylitol has been shown to inhibit the growth of bacteria – in particular, of Streptococcus mutans, the main bacteria responsible for cavities.  In several studies, scientists have found that people who regularly chew gum that contains xylitol have fewer cavities than people who

don’t chew xylitol gums.  Other studies have shown that chewing gum that contains xylitol at least five times a day can reduce plaque and make it easier to remove plaque buildup when brushing.

In general, anything that you do after eating (including rinsing with plain water) can be helpful in a preventive regimen.  I hope you find this information helpful.

Have a great day!

Dr. Bard J. Levey