Acidity and Why It Matters
When we think about cavities, sugar is often the first culprit that comes to mind. While it’s true that sugar plays a role, there’s an even greater threat to your teeth — acid. Have you ever considered how much acid you consume each day?
Acid is found in many of the things we eat and drink every day — like soda, coffee, citrus fruits, and even salad dressings. Each time you consume something acidic, it can start to wear down the outer layer of your teeth, called enamel. This process is known as erosion.
Once enamel is weakened, your teeth become more vulnerable to cavities and other damage. The more often your mouth is exposed to acidic foods and drinks, the greater your risk of erosion — which can ultimately compromise your tooth structure and overall oral health.
What is Xylitol?
Xylitol is a naturally occurring sweetener. It is found in small amounts naturally (in fruits and vegetables) and is used in sugar-free gums, candies, mints and many oral-care products.
Xylitol is known for its ability to help stimulate saliva and reduce bacteria.
Unlike regular sugar, the bacteria in your mouth can’t use xylitol to produce acid — the acid that normally causes tooth decay. Because of this, xylitol helps reduce the risk of cavities and supports a healthier oral environment.
When you use xylitol-containing products, they naturally encourage your salivary glands to produce more saliva. This added moisture helps relieve the uncomfortable feeling of dryness while also keeping your mouth’s pH more balanced.
Xylitol also plays a role in neutralizing acids. Increased saliva flow from xylitol use helps rinse away food debris and acids, while the saliva itself contains minerals like calcium and phosphate that strengthen enamel.
What are Common Causes of Dry Mouth?
Medications
o Almost 70% of people over 45 years old are taking at least one medication daily.
o Most common medications that have dry mouth as a side effect: Antidepressants/ADHD medications, antihistamines,
anti-hypertensives(blood pressure meds), Anti-Parkinson’s meds, Diuretics and Sedatives
Aging
o As we age, we tend to produce less saliva. This, coupled with potential medications, increases the possibility of suffering from dry mouth.
Cancer Therapy
o Cancer treatments, of any type of cancer, can have oral side effects, including dry mouth.
Tobacco/Vaping/Marijuana Use
o Use of tobacco, vapes, and marijuana all have a side effect of creating a dry mouth.
There are many things that cause dry mouth.