xylitol added to ones mouthwash is another great way to improve oral health:
grok3: Xylitol improves oral health by:
Reducing Cavity-Causing Bacteria: Xylitol inhibits the growth of Streptococcus mutans, a primary bacteria responsible for tooth decay, by preventing it from metabolizing sugars and producing acid that erodes enamel.
Decreasing Plaque Formation: It reduces plaque buildup on teeth, as bacteria struggle to adhere to tooth surfaces in its presence.
Stimulating Saliva Production: Chewing xylitol gum or consuming xylitol products increases saliva flow, which helps neutralize acids, remineralize enamel, and wash away food particles.
Lowering Acidity: Xylitol is non-fermentable, meaning it doesn’t break down into acids like sugar does, maintaining a neutral pH in the mouth.
Promoting Remineralization: By fostering a less acidic environment, it supports the natural repair of early tooth decay through enamel remineralization.
Studies suggest regular use of xylitol (e.g., 6–10 grams daily via gum or lozenges) can reduce cavity risk by up to 30–85%, depending on frequency and dosage. It’s most effective when used consistently after meals.
Xylitol kills my gut- was taking a rinse for dry mouth due to meds, and kept having stomach problems- stopped the rinse, and it went away. (No I don’t ingest the rinse, but you can’t help getting the ingredients into stomach through normal swallowing after rinsing). I just keep a bottle of power aid by bed now for the dry mouth and sip it-