Using and Incorporating Xylitol in the Dental Practice
An Interview with Dr. John Bruinsma
Dr. John Bruinsma
Learning Objectives:
This podcast is an interview with Dr. John Bruinsma on the
effects and use of xylitol. After hearing this podcast, the listener should:
- Know
what xylitol is, how it is delivered, and how it positively affects three
of the “manageable” pathologic conditions that lead to dental decay.
- Be
ready to inform future patients about ways in which they can get xylitol
As you may know, xylitol is an all-natural, simple sugar
substitute that has been shown to decrease bad bacteria in the oral
environment, replenish saliva, and replace unhealthy or sugary snacks in a
patient’s diet, all of which are considered pathologic causes of dental decay. In this interview with Dr. Bruinsma, we
explore the use and effects of xylitol, delivery methods, and the expanding
ways in which xylitol is used in today’s dental practice.
*Dr. Bruinsma is a graduate of the University of Michigan. He currently
owns and operates a private practice with his wife, Debra, a registered dental
hygienist. He also owns and operates Dr. John’s Candies, a company that
produces and distributes xylitol candies and snacks.
Related Reading:
- Makinen
KK. New biochemical aspects of sweeteners. Int Dent J 1985;35:23-35.
- Makinen
KK, Isokangas P. Relationship between carbohydrate sweeteners and
oral diseases. Prog Food Nutr Sci 1988;12:73-109.
- Makinen
KK, Scheinin A. Turku sugar studies VII.
Principal biochemical findings on whole saliva and plaque. Acta Odontol
Scand 1976;34:241-283.
- Makinen
KK, Bennett CA, Hujoel PP, et al. Xylitol chewing gums and caries rates: A 40-month cohort study. J
Dent Res 1995;74:1904-1913.
- Makinen
KK, Hujoel PP, Bennett CA, et al. Polyol
chewing gums and caries rates in primary dentition: A 24-month cohort
study. Caries Res 1996a;30:408-417.
- Makinen
KK, Makinen PL, Pape HR Jr, et al. Conclusion and review of the Michigan xylitol programme (1986-1995)
for the prevention of dental caries. Int Dent J 1996b;46:22-34.