Effect of Xylitol on Plaque Index and Acidity of Dental Biofilm and Saliva
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Introduction: Dental caries is the most common oral disease in childhood, and sucrose plays a significant role in its development. As awareness grows of the health implications surrounding high sugar diets, finding appropriate sugar substitutes becomes crucial. One of the used substitutes is xylitol - a sugar alcohol used as a sweetener. The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the effects of using xylitol lollipops in children aged 7 to 12 years on the formation and accumulation of dental biofilm, the pH value of dental biofilm, and the pH value of saliva. Materials and methods: The study involved 40 children aged 7 to 12. The value of the plaque index, the pH of the saliva, and plaque were evaluated after 14-day frequent usage of xylitol lollipops. Results: The results show that the use of xylitol lollipops reduces the values of the plaque index. Xylitol products have been shown to potentially increase plaque and saliva pH values. The differences are statistically significant compared to the baseline levels (p<0.001). Conclusion: These findings collectively suggest that xylitol effectively reduces plaque accumulation and maintains a favorable pH environment in the oral cavity, which can help prevent dental caries and improve overall oral health. Such products are a valuable preventive measure among schoolchildren and can replace the use of sugar-containing lollipops.
Authors: Ralitsa Bogovska-Gigova, Krasimir Hristov
Language: English
Subfield: Periodontics
Field: Dentistry
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $161
OpenAlex ID: W4409239068