Xylitol Study reaches TV News in USA
A new Xylitol study providing evidence of the prevention of tooth decay in babies has just been published and the results are so noteworthy, ABC News picked up on the story.
In the newly published study*, researchers discovered that Xylitol syrup provided 2 or 3 times per day to babies living in a high caries population could lead to prevention of decay in baby teeth. 94 babies aged 9-15 months living in the Marshall Islands were split into 3 groups by researchers at the University of Washington, Seattle; one group received 8g of Xylitol syrup divided into two daily doses, a second group received 8g Xylitol in three doses and the final group was given one single dose of 2.67g Xylitol. After an average 10 month follow up period the children who were provided the higher dose Xylitol in two or three doses had significantly less signs of early tooth decay.
Xylitol’s role in the prevention of tooth decay
The lead researcher Dr Peter Milgrom concluded that Xylitol syrup could be a cost-effective anti-cavity measure in populations of high tooth decay and commented "Poor oral health affects diet and nutrition, however tooth decay is largely preventable. These results provide evidence for the first time (to our knowledge) that Xylitol is effective for the prevention of decay in primary teeth of toddlers".
Dr Nigel Carter, CEO of the British Dental Health Foundation said "These studies could prove to be an invaluable aid in preventing early years tooth decay which is a key marker for future oral health."
Why the results are so significant
The study was undertaken in the Marshall Islands which has a very high dental caries incidence level, especially amongst children. The average child entering school at age 5 has 6.6 untreated cavities and more than 90% of children have more than 1 decayed tooth. This is three times higher than in a typical US mainland community. From an early age children drink rain catchment water that does not contain appreciable levels of fluoride and there are no fluoride supplements available. It is also common practice to give children bottles with sugar water and high sugar-containing canned fruit juices which only lead to worsening caries incidences. Therefore, this was an ideal region to provide Xylitol to babies in the form of a syrup, as chewing gum and confectionery are not suitable for this age group.
This is another important study which adds to the already impressive catalogue of Xylitol caries prevention research. If you would like any further information or would like to receive a copy of the study then please do not hesitate to contact webmaster@xylitolinfo.com
Reference:
Xylitol Pediatric Topical Oral Syrup to Prevent Dental Caries. A double-blind randomized clinical trial of efficacy – Milgrom, P. et al, JAMA Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, July 2009;163(7):601-607
