Comparative evaluation of the efficacy of xylitol toothpaste and xylitol chewing gum on salivary parameters: an in-vivo study.

Background: Xylitol, a naturally occurring five-carbon sugar polyol, is a white crystalline carbohydrate known since a century ago. Xylitol promotes the remineralisation both by the increasing of saliva rate and inhibition of bacteria growth. Objective: To assess the efficacy of xylitol toothpaste and chewing gum on salivary parameters - salivary pH, RFR and SFR among patients with medium cariogenic risk. Methods: The study population comprises of 40 subjects with medium cariogenic risk were divided into 2 groups of 20 individuals each. Subjects in Group I, Group II were given xylitol tooth paste, and xylitol chewing gum for 3 weeks. The following parameters were assessed before and after the use of xylitol-based products - RFR, SFR, and salivary pH. Results: Both groups showed an increase in the RFR, SFR and pH after three weeks. RFR was found to be statistically significant in Group I (p=0.004), Group II (p=0.000). SFR was found to be statistically significant in Group II (p=0.000). pH was found to be statistically significant in Group I (p=0.001) and Group III (p=0.000). Conclusion: Chewing-gum is comparatively more effective than toothpaste. Considering convenience and affordability for the subjects, chewing-gum may not always be preferred and in that case mouthwash or toothpaste can be used for the promotion of better oral health. Keywords: Chewing gum, Salivary flow, Toothpaste, Xylitol.