Back to Annual Meeting Page		American Public Health Association 133rd Annual Meeting & Exposition December 10-14, 2005 Philadelphia, PA

Abstract #106724

Sandra Nagel Beebe, RDH, PhD, Dental Hygiene Clinical Instructor, School of Allied Health, ASA, MC 6615, Southern Illinois University Carbondale, Carbondale, IL 62901, 618 529-7591, sbeebe@siu.edu

The material presented by the researcher will describe the benefits of xylitol to health care professionals in both dental and medical arena's. A brief outline of the xylitol history would begin with the discovery in the late 19th century by French and German chemists, the Soviet's using xylitol for decades as a sweetner for diabetics, Chinese medical purposes, Germany's intravenous feeding, prevention of acute otitis media in Finland, and our major concern, fighting tooth decay and dry mouth. Basic facts will be introduced highlighting xylitol facts from studies demonstrating the positive effects. Facts to be considered are: what is xylitol, explanation of the differences between other sweetners, development and availability of xylitol naturally occurring in nature, course of acid attack, why the material is tooth friendly, safety of product, relief for dry mouth, daily amounts recommended and tolerated, importance in caries prevention, and possible new techniques for daily care. A further discussion would evolve with the benefits of dental care combined with other medical situations. In a Finnish study (1998), Uhari, Kontiokari, and Niemela found when xylitol sugar was given in a syrup or chewing gum, it was effective in preventing Acute Otitis Media and decreased the need for antimicrobials. Pro's and con's will be identified with the availability for purchase in the United States.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this session, one will be able to

• Understand the development, chemistry, and advantages of xylitol for cavity prevention;
• Identify other medicinal purposes as a result of using xylitol products;
• Recognize advantages and disadvantages for consumers use.

Keywords: Oral Health, Health Promotion

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

I wish to disclose that I have NO financial interests or other relationship with the manufactures of commercial products, suppliers of commercial services or commercial supporters.