Reducing Biofilm: What Do Xylitol, Cranberries, Grape Seed, Root Beer and Raisins Have in Common with Brushing and Flossing?

The days of brushing and flossing will never be gone. Educating those who wear braces about the importance of removing oral biofilm, commonly called plaque, with mechanical means is the basis of good oral hygiene and good health. People with orthodontic appliances struggle with effective biofilm removal using traditional methods. But, you knew that.

Instead of thinking about teaching brushing and flossing, think about the process in terms of biofilm reduction. How would that look? Today we have ways of reducing biofilm that can either augment traditional methods, or replace them. These methods are mechanical, chemical and biological. The idea of reducing biofilm can open doors of discussion and give your patients the feeling that you understand their pain.

Arguably the most effective is Xylitol to combat biofilm. It’s fun, it’s tasty, and it’s effective. Some dentists are still reluctant to recommend Xylitol chewing gum to their patients wearing brackets and bands. For these dentists, other ways of achieving the benefits from chewing gum four to five times a day with this miraculous sugar will have to be found. Xylitol helps by interfering with the early colonizers ability to produce the sticky extrapolymeric substances (EPS).