How to treat dry mouth with xylitol

You can reduce cavities by chewing gum containing xylitol.

Dry mouth is a common condition that causes discomfort and leads to dental problems like gum disease, cavities and infection. Dry mouth is a side effect of many medications as well as a symptom of some diseases, according to WebMD. It is important to treat dry mouth for optimal oral health. If you're looking for a natural way to treat dry mouth, xylitol--a naturally occurring sugar found in most plants--is a simple, inexpensive treatment.

Instructions

1. Buy chewing gum that contains xylitol. Although sorbitol is the most common sweetener in sugar-free gum because it is cheaper and easier to manufacture, you can find brands that contain xylitol. Look on the ingredients list to see if xylitol is used.

2. Use mouth sprays that contain xylitol. There are a variety of mouth sprays that use xylitol to moisturize, freshen and protect your mouth. Many options can be purchased online or in your local drug store and used as often as you like.

3. Give your child a daily dose of xylitol syrup. Researchers at the University of Washington found that children who were given the fruit-flavored syrup had lower rates of tooth decay than other children, WebMD reports. They presented their results in 2008 at the 86th General Session of the International Association for Dental Research in Toronto. Like the gum and the spray, xylitol syrup can be found online or in drug stores.

Tips & Warnings

• The American Veterinary Medical Association has reported that xylitol may be toxic for dogs.

References

• WebMD: Oral Health Guide
• RXList
• WebMD: Sweetener May Cut Cavities in Kids