Evidence supporting the use of: Sugar alcohol
For the health condition: Tooth Decay

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 5

Sugar alcohols, such as xylitol, sorbitol, and erythritol, are widely recognized for their role in supporting oral health and reducing tooth decay. The scientific validation for their use is robust, particularly for xylitol. Unlike regular sugars, sugar alcohols are not fermented by oral bacteria (such as Streptococcus mutans), which are primarily responsible for acid production that leads to enamel demineralization and cavities. Multiple clinical studies and systematic reviews have demonstrated that xylitol, in particular, can reduce the levels of cariogenic bacteria and decrease the incidence of dental caries, especially when used in chewing gums or lozenges.

The American Dental Association and other dental health organizations have endorsed the use of sugar alcohols as non-cariogenic sugar substitutes. Xylitol's mechanism involves not only depriving bacteria of fermentable substrate but also inhibiting their growth and reducing their ability to adhere to tooth surfaces. Sorbitol and erythritol are also considered tooth-friendly, though the evidence is strongest for xylitol. The routine inclusion of sugar alcohols in sugar-free gum and oral care products is based on this scientific foundation rather than tradition, with decades of research supporting their caries-preventive effects.

In summary, the use of sugar alcohols to support and prevent tooth decay is strongly supported by scientific evidence, with a high level of confidence in their efficacy as part of oral health strategies.

More about sugar alcohol
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Other health conditions supported by sugar alcohol

Diabetes
Sugar Cravings
Tooth Decay