Impact of Maternal Xylitol Consumption on Mutans Sterptococci

Impact of Maternal Xylitol Consumption on Mutans Sterptococci ,Plaque and Caries Levels in Children

The study was designed to determine whether maternal xylitol consumption through regular chewing of xylitol gums can affect the salivary mutans streptococci (MS), dental caries, and dental plaque levels of their children.

Method: Study sample included 60 mother and child pairs with high salivary mutans streptococcus (MS) levels. Samples were randomly divided into experimental group (30 pairs) and control group (30 pairs). Mothers in the experimental group received xylitol chewing gum treatment three times/day for three months, whereas the controls received fluoride varnish. Both groups received oral hygiene instructions, dietary counseling and restorative treatment. All children were examined after 6, 12 and 18 months from the initiation of the study to assess caries, plaque and salivary mutans streptococcus (MS) levels.

Inclusion Criteria:

• mothers with high salivary counts (≥ 105)
• mothers having children at least 10 months of age (10-36months) or having a minimal of 8 primary teeth.

Exclusion Criteria:

• subjects with systemic disorders or on regular medications