Xylimelts
Xylitol is a natural sugar alcohol. It's an ingredient found in many oral care products, such as toothpaste, mouthwash, and chewing gum. It's used to prevent cavities by stopping the growth of bad bacteria in your mouth. It also works to treat dry mouth by helping you produce more saliva. The amount of xylitol found in dental products isn't know to cause noticeable side effects. Xylitol-containing dental products are typically available over the counter without a prescription.
What is Xylitol?
What is Xylitol used for?
- Prevention of cavities (tooth decay)
- Dry mouth
How Xylitol works
Xylitol is a sugar alcohol that naturally occurs in some fruits and vegetables and is commonly used as a sweetener in foods. Xylitol is also used in certain dental products to prevent cavities by stopping the growth of certain bacteria in your mouth that break down your teeth. It's also used to treat dry mouth by helping you make more saliva.
Drug facts
| Common Brands | Epic, Spry, XyliMelts, XyliDENT |
|---|---|
| Drug Class | Sugar alcohol |
| Controlled Substance Classification | Not a controlled medication |
| Generic Status | No lower-cost generic available |
| Availability | Over-the-counter |
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Pros and cons of Xylitol
Pros
- Doesn't raise your blood sugar much, which is good for people with diabetes
- Available over the counter without a prescription
- Many formulations to choose from, such as gum, mouthwash, or mouth gel
Cons
- Can affect bowel movements, so might not be a good option for people with digestive problems, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Needs to be taken multiple times a day to help with dry mouth
- Harmful to dogs if they accidentally swallow it
Pharmacist tips for Xylitol
- Different formulations of xylitol products have different age cut-offs and directions. Always read the package labels for instructions and age limits before using xylitol products on your child.
- Some xylitol toothpastes contain sodium fluoride, which requires rinsing your mouth and spitting out after brushing. Make sure to supervise your child to prevent them from swallowing the toothpaste.
- Some xylitol mouthwashes contain alcohol, which can be dangerous for children. In general, children under 6 years old shouldn't use mouthwash. Please follow the directions on the product or ask your dental provider if you have questions.
- Don't replace brushing or flossing your teeth with xylitol chewing gum; it’s not meant to be a substitute. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends to brush your teeth twice a day with toothpaste that contains sodium fluoride and floss once a day to clean tooth plaque (bacteria between teeth).
- For best results, consider using xylitol chewing gum for 20 minutes right after each meal to prevent tooth decay.
- Make sure to read the 'Instructions For Use' before using XyliMelts: Stick the tan side of the tablet on your teeth or gums. Use your tongue to adjust the placement of the tablet as needed. Once the tablet is in place, don't touch the tablet for 10 seconds to allow it to stick. If you need to use more than 1 tablet, place each tablet on a different side of the mouth.
- Store xylitol up and away and out of reach and sight of your children or pets. This prevents them from accidentally swallowing medicine that was left out. Xylitol can be extremely harmful to dogs if they accidentally eat it. Always put your medications away every time you use it.
- Throw away expired xylitol in regular trash (out of reach from children and pets). It might not work as well anymore.
Xylitol dosage
Carton| Dosage | Quantity | Price as low as | Price per unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 40 melts of mild mint | 1 carton | $18.95 | $18.95 |
| 40 melts of slightly sweet | 1 carton | $18.95 | $18.95 |
Typical dosage for Xylitol
Xylitol products made by different manufacturers might have different directions and age-cutoffs. To make sure you're taking this medication correctly, follow the specific product instructions on the package or talk with your healthcare professional or pharmacist about how to use it.
Examples of some xylitol products include:
-
Xylitol toothpastes (Spry, Epic): Apply a thin ribbon onto a toothbrush and brush teeth thoroughly after each meal, typically twice a day or as directed by your dentist.
-
Xylitol mouthwash (Spry): Swish half of a capful in your mouth for 1 minute, then spit out. Use twice daily after brushing your teeth with toothpaste.
-
Xylitol mouth gel (Spry, XyliGel): Use a small amount of gel in your mouth following the specific product instructions on the package. Use as needed throughout the day or before bedtime.
-
Xylitol stick-on melts (XyliMelts): Place 1 tablet inside your mouth in between your gums and cheek on the side of your mouth. Let it dissolve. Take as needed throughout the day. Can take up to 2 tablets before bedtime as directed by your dental provider.
-
Xylitol chewing gum (Spry): Chew 1 piece by mouth throughout the day as needed after meals.
How much does Xylitol cost?
$18.95
