Infants can be given xylitol. It fights yeast infections on their tongues and develops a healthy environment for the eruption of first teeth. The easiest way is to dissolve a tiny amount of granular xylitol in an ounce of water, and give to the baby in a bottle or sippy cup. A small amount of xylitol (about an eighth of a teaspoon) should be applied to gums or teeth in solution throughout the day, especially after feeding or before sleeping. The total xylitol consumed by an infant may be a couple of grams a day, but by the time the child has all the baby teeth the dose may be raised to one to two teaspoons (6-8 grams) each day. This can be continued indefinitely, but as children grow they may prefer other methods of taking xylitol.

Children, teens, and adults can use xylitol to rid the mouth of plaque bacteria and balance acidity after every snack and meal, whenever they have a dry mouth, and if they are unable to clean teeth before naps or bedtime.

Find the product that fits your lifestyle: mint, gum, or granular xylitol that can be taken directly from a spoon or dissolved in water. You need regular exposure to at least 6 to 10 grams of xylitol per day to rid the mouth of harmful bacteria. While it is safe to consume from 50 to 100 grams of xylitol daily, for optimum dental health there is a plateau effect at 10 grams, and additional amounts are no more beneficial.

Special circumstances

Diabetics can safely consume xylitol as a sugar alternative because it does not raise blood sugar and has a glycemic index of 7. The reduction of plaque will helpprevent gum disease, which has been linked to insulin instability.

Athletes who consume acidic energy drinks and carbohydrate bars may make the resulting dental damage worse with open-mouth breathing during exercise. Xylitol can balance acidity and reduce plaque deposits to protect gum and tooth health.

Denture wearers, menopausal women, and cancer patients or anyone on medications, experiencing hormonal changes or with decreased resistance to infection, will benefit from using xylitol. Those not able to care for their mouths either permanently or temporarily can use xylitol to help maintain oral health. Military combat personnel, disabled children and adults, those who are ill or otherwise incapacitated, and anyone being cared for by another will benefit from using xylitol.

Xylitol is harmful to dogs

It is said that xylitol is dangerous for dogs if ingested. Although some dog toothpastes are made with xylitol, to be safe, keep xylitol products including items baked with xylitol away from pets.