Is there a child who, at the sight of the colorful lollipops lined up so neatly by the checkout counter, wouldn't ask for one? One of the biggest challenges as a parent, we can assure you, is making sure your children take care of their teeth. If you're one of the parents who want their child to eat age-appropriate, balanced amounts of sweets, then this article is exactly for you.
Let us introduce you to the "sweet that's good for your teeth" - xylitol.
Why is xylitol so popular among dentists?
Xylitol is a natural product, a type of sugar alcohol used as a sugar substitute in foods and beverages. Xylitol is about as sweet as regular table sugar (sucrose), but has 33% fewer calories.
The difference between the two comes down to just 1 molecule - xylitol contains 5 carbon molecules, instead of 6 in regular sugar. And that's where the key differences come from.
Doesn't cause cavities
Even though xylitol is sweet, inside the mouth it doesn't turn into acid and doesn't cause cavities the way . regular sugar does. In fact, it has been shown that xylitol reduces cavities and can help remineralize tooth enamel. It also changes the composition .of the microorganisms in the mouth with frequent use.
Reduces bad bacteria in the mouth
Xylitol is added to chewing gum, sweets, and other oral care products, to help prevent dental problems from early childhood. It achieves this by reducing the levels of bacteria that cause a range of undesirable processes in saliva. Studies have shown that most bacteria can't use xylitol as a source of energy, especially those that damage teeth and cause cavities. Microorganisms in dental plaque can't process xylitol and literally "starve".
Dental lollipops, created by a dentist
We applaud the idea of Dr. Tsvetelina Ducheva (Dr. Tsveti) to create beneficial treats that, besides not damaging children's teeth, also help prevent cavities
Here you can find her dental lollipops with xylitol. The sugar-free lollipop has a flattened shape, and that's no accident - it's designed to fit the space between the cheek and the teeth, so the child can suck on it with a closed mouth and swallow comfortably, without strain, unlike round lollipops. The dental lollipops contain xylitol and isomalt - ingredients with proven benefits for children's dental health, and help maintain a normal pH in the oral cavity.
