Abstract

Prevention is the area of dentistry that should be given more emphasis to reduce further consequences on the oral cavity. The aim of this study was to assess the use of xylitol chewing gum on dental plaque, saliva flow and saliva buffer capacity in youngster. Fifteen dental students were randomly assigned to a study and control group, the first received a xylitol chewing gum while the second a placebo chewing gum, provided 4 times per day for 21 days. Dental plaque, saliva flow and saliva ph were measures at day 0, 7, 14 and 21st. Dental plaque concentration decreased in both groups (p >0,05), saliva flow increased (p>0,05) and saliva ph was incremented but no significant differences were found among groups (p>0,05). The use of xylitol chewing gum helps to reduce dental plaque, increase saliva flow and ph, like the placebo chewing gum, but a larger study is needed to properly assess if xylitol has an additional benefit on the studied variables.