Dentistry is Changing, PART II                                                                                                    April 2011

Since our release of “Dentistry is changing; PART I”, there have been some updates to the on-going fight against tooth decay. We last stated our concern was a diseased, acidigenic biofilm which causes tooth decay. At the time, dentistry was trying to rid your mouth of the disease-causing bacteria by finding ways to “kill” the organisms responsible for tooth decay. We naturally have a varying scale of acid and basic levels in our saliva. For example, the pH of your mouth will determine which bacteria are able to survive and receive nutrients. In a nutshell, acidic saliva supports bacteria that are more harmful to your teeth and more alkaline (neutral) saliva supports bacteria less harmful to your teeth.

Dental researchers are just beginning to appreciate the complexity of the human mouth. Up until recently, it was assumed the best way to prevent tooth decay was to brush and floss your teeth three times a day (after every meal). However, cleaning your teeth is only part of preventing tooth decay. Maintaining your mouth at an optimal pH level is also important.

Any time the pH is lower than desired, we need to consider ways to raise the pH, inhibiting the bacteria from producing the harmful acids. Brushing with baking soda or adding it to your regular toothpaste is one easy, at-home option. There are also neutralizing pastes and gels used to create a “neutral pH” in your saliva. These products are available from your dentist. In certain cases, we may recommend having trays made to help hold the pastes/creams against the teeth for a longer period of time. Xylitol, a natural sweetener, raises the pH levels in your saliva and inhibits the harmful bacteria from producing acid. Xylitol is found in the fibers of many fruits and vegetables, including various berries, corn husks, oats, and mushrooms.. Xylitol is added to such products as gums, mints, and rinses. The recommended dosage is 6-10grams spread throughout your day. The increase of pH from consuming xylitol causes certain components of the saliva to halt and in some cases even reverse the development of cavities. The acid from the bacteria feeding on the sugars in your meal would normally attack your teeth for roughly 30 minutes after you finish eating. Xylitol prevents the attack from occurring. Diet also plays a role in lowering your pH to a potentially harmful level. Sodas, lemons (citrus), acidic fruits will lower the pH creating a more inviting environment for the harmful bacteria. Brushing, flossing, rinsing, and using xylitol products shortly after eating such foods and after every meal will help to reduce your risk of tooth decay.

More products and changes are on the horizon in our quest to limit tooth decay. For further information on this subject we recommend the following links;

http://blog.doctorbase.com/index.php/2011/02/28/xylitol-and-your-teeth/

http://blog.doctorbase.com/index.php/2011/03/02/ph-levels-and-our-mouth/

http://cde.dentalaegis.com/courses/4529

Although you can find many xylitol products over the counter, we also recommend the following sites;

www.carifree.com code TAN4757   www.EpicDental.com                          www.xclear.com

Dr. David A. Tanner D.D.S.