, 10:23 am Dental caries is one of the most common oral health problems, caused by plaque buildup resulting from bacteria in the mouth. This plaque produces acids that damage tooth enamel and lead to cavities. A well-known effective solution is the use of xylitol, a natural ingredient found in dental care products such as sugar-free chewing gum and toothpaste. Xylitol not only serves as a sugar substitute but also helps reduce the growth of bacteria that harm teeth. Beyond xylitol, new innovations have introduced plaque-lifting chewing gum, like the product developed by students from Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), which utilizes dragon fruit peel extract to enhance oral health.
Xylitol functions very differently from regular sugar. When sugar is consumed, oral bacteria convert it into acid, which erodes tooth enamel. However, xylitol cannot be converted into acid by oral bacteria. This means xylitol deprives harmful bacteria of their food source, thereby reducing acid production in the mouth. Additionally, xylitol stimulates saliva production, which plays a crucial role in combating plaque and supporting the remineralization of enamel damaged by acid. As a result, xylitol in dental care products can lower the risk of cavities and improve overall dental health.
A key benefit of xylitol is its ability to reduce the number of Streptococcus mutans bacteria, the primary cause of dental caries. Using xylitol-based dental care products, such as chewing gum, can decrease the prevalence of caries in children by up to 70%. Complementing this, innovative products like plaque-lifting chewing gum developed by UGM students enhance prevention efforts. This chewing gum, made from dragon fruit peel extract, contains high levels of antioxidants and is believed to have a positive effect on cleaning plaque that regular toothbrushes cannot reach.
Combining xylitol and dragon fruit peel extract in chewing gum offers a double benefit. While xylitol reduces bacteria that cause cavities, it also helps clean plaque naturally. Dragon fruit peel extract, rich in polyphenols, assists in lifting plaque and protecting teeth from further damage. This innovation provides a practical and effective approach to dental care, allowing individuals to maintain oral health anytime and anywhere.
In conclusion, while xylitol and plaque-lifting chewing gum are not standalone solutions, they represent highly beneficial preventive measures for maintaining dental health. Regular use of xylitol-based products, alongside innovations like chewing gum made from dragon fruit peel extract, can significantly reduce the risk of dental damage.
Maintaining oral hygiene, avoiding excessive consumption of sugary foods, and visiting the dentist regularly remain essential steps for optimal oral health. These efforts also support the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being, and Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production.
Author: Rizky B. Hendrawan | Photo: Freepik
