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How xylitol-containing products affect cariogenic bacteria.
Marilyn C Roberts1, Christine A Riedy, Susan E Coldwell
1Department of Pathobiology, University of Washington, Seattle, USA.
Summary
Xylitol consumption did not reduce Streptococcus mutans levels in children or adults. However, some bacteria developed increased xylitol tolerance, suggesting a potential shift in oral microbiome susceptibility.
Area of Science:
- Oral microbiology
- Dental caries research
- Pharmacology of sweeteners
Background:
- Investigating the impact of xylitol, a natural sweetener, on cariogenic bacteria.
- Examining the mechanism of action of xylitol in the oral environment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the effect of xylitol on Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus sobrinus levels.
- To understand how xylitol influences the tolerance of these bacteria.
Main Methods:
- Compared bacterial levels in children and adults before and after xylitol product consumption.
- Analyzed unstimulated saliva and gingival samples using microbiological media and DNA probes.
- Determined genetic relatedness of bacterial isolates using pulse-field gel electrophoresis.
Main Results:
- Salivary S. mutans levels remained stable in children; however, isolates showed increased xylitol tolerance post-exposure.
- One adult showed reduced S. mutans and S. sobrinus levels with increased xylitol tolerance.
- The second adult experienced increased S. mutans and S. sobrinus levels with unchanged bacterial tolerance.
Conclusions:
- Xylitol consumption did not consistently reduce S. mutans levels in the studied populations.
- A notable increase in xylitol tolerance was observed in bacterial isolates from some participants.
- Findings inform recommendations for xylitol products and patient education on its mechanism.