Xylitol Gummy Bear Snacks: A School-Based Study
Author Information
Author(s): Ly Kiet A, Riedy Christine A, Milgrom Peter, Rothen Marilynn, Roberts Marilyn C, Zhou Lingmei
Primary Institution: University of Washington
Hypothesis
Does habitual consumption of a xylitol gummy bear snack reduce S. mutans/sobrinus levels in plaque?
Conclusion
Xylitol gummy bear snack consumption reduced S. mutans/sobrinus levels after six weeks, but Lactobacillus spp. levels remained unchanged.
Supporting Evidence
- Children consuming xylitol gummy bears showed significant reductions in S. mutans/sobrinus levels.
- High dose maltitol also reduced S. mutans/sobrinus levels, complicating the interpretation of xylitol results.
- Post-study discussions indicated feasibility and acceptance of the gummy bear snack program in schools.
Takeaway
Eating gummy bears with xylitol can help keep your teeth healthy by reducing bad bacteria in your mouth.
Methodology
Children were randomized to receive different doses of xylitol or maltitol gummy bears, and plaque samples were collected at baseline and after six weeks.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to children with no measurable S. mutans/sobrinus levels at baseline.
Limitations
Plaque collection was not standardized by weight, and high maltitol doses may have affected xylitol results.
Participant Demographics
Mean age 8.4 years, 55% boys, 90% Caucasian.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.0001
Statistical Significance
p<0.0001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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