In vitro study of xylitol on growth and acid production of Streptococcus mutans

Objective To study the inhibitory effect of xylitol on the growth and acid production of streptococcus mutans. Methods Streptococcus mutans were incubated respectively in 3% sucrose culture medium and 2% xylitol culture medium under anaerobic conditions. The D (600) and pH value of the mediums were measured. Results The growth and acid production of streptococcus mutans were inhibited significantly in the xylitol culture medium, and xylitol also retarded the growth and acid production of the bacteria in sucrose culture medium. Conclusion Xylitol can inhibit the growth and acid production of streptococcus mutans, and can be used as a promising sweetener for preventing caries risk.