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Many toothpaste are sweet because they contain an artificial sweetener such as sodium saccharin, a form of saccharin. Unlike sugar, saccharin doesn't promote tooth decay. Some toothpastes contain xylitol, a natural type of sweetener known as a sugar alcohol. Xylitol doesn't promote tooth decay and may actually offer some protection against cavities.
Sweeteners improve the taste of the toothpaste. Saccharin is a commonly used one. There are also the sugar alcohols, sorbitol and xylitol, which are actually neither "sugar" nor "alcohol". Go figure. Xylitol not only prevents toothpaste from tasting bad, but also helps prevent cavity formation, so many dentists give it a gold star.
More About this Book
Smile!: The Ultimate Guide to Achieving Smile Beauty
Renowned dentist and creator of the GoSMILE product line Dr. Levine offers this complete guide to getting a whiter, brighter smile. 15 photos & illustrations.
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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.