The recommended dose for dental
cavity prevention is 6-10 grams per day. For those with temporomandibular
joint dysfunction (TMJ) and have difficulty chewing, Xylitol candy
should be used instead of chewing gum. At high dosages Xylitol can
cause diarrhea in children at 45 grams per day and 100 grams per
day in adults.
To be effective, xylitol needs
to be used daily on an ongoing basis and its use does not replace
brushing and / or flossing. Brushing
and Flossing are part of maintaining overall dental health. Children
need to brush daily with a fluoride toothpaste and will also benefit
from the use of an over the counter fluoride
mouthrinse. Xylitol
can be added to our dental arsenal tool kit in the fight against
dental decay. It is this long term daily compliance use which is
the only drawback. The primary source of xylitol is candy and gum.
To be therapeutic the dosage of xylitol is most important, around
6 to 10 grams of Xylitol per day.
The amount tolerated varies
with individual susceptibility and body weight. Most adults can
tolerate 40g per day. When reading the product label, Xylitol should
be the first sugar listed and, ideally, the only sugar included.