FAQ's About Xylitol

FAQ's About Xylitol

Xylitol: What is it and where does it come from?

Xylitol safety and side effects

Xylitol Dental Benefits

Where can I get xylitol?

How much xylitol is necessary to be effective?

Epic Cavity-Free Guarantee Program

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Xylitol: What is it and where does it come from?

Xylitol is a naturally occurring sweetener, from plants:

Xylitol is an all-natural sweetener found in many fruits and vegetables, including raspberries and plums. It tastes and looks like sugar. Because of its unique molecular structure, xylitol reduces the amount of tooth eating acid that is produced by the bacteria in our mouth. Studies have also shown that xylitol can also help reduce ear infections. Because of these and other health benefits, many consider Xylitol a healthy alternative to sugar.

Because it is all-natural, it differs substantially from artificially created chemical sweeteners like Splenda®, aspartame, and acesulfame potassium. Xylitol is not a chemical or a drug. It's completely natural. It is even produced by the human body during normal metabolism (up to 15 grams daily from other foods).

What makes xylitol so special?

Xylitol is best known for its cavity-fighting capabilities, although studies have also shown it can reduce ear infections.

Xylitol has a unique molecular structure that keeps certain types of bacteria, especially cavity-causing bacteria, from breaking it down for food. Without food, the bacteria don’t have energy. Without energy, they can’t grow or create the acid that causes cavities. In fact, Epic xylitol is so good at cutting down on the acid-producing bacteria that studies show some tooth decay actually heals itself in a xylitol environment.

Studies have also shown that xylitol can strongly impact the Strep pneumo bacteria, a major cause of ear infections. In one study, children who regularly chewed xylitol gum had an almost 50% reduction in ear infections. These children used at least 8 grams of xylitol daily.

Using at least 6-8 grams of xylitol each day is an important way to improve your health.

How is xylitol different from other sugar-free sweeteners?

Xylitol is a nutritive sweetener that contains about 40% fewer calories than sugar. It is all-natural and differs considerably from chemically-engineered artificial sweeteners like Splenda®, sucralose, aspartame & acesulfame potassium.

Because of its molecular structure, it is considered a polyol or “sugar alcohol.” Sugar alcohols are commonly used to sweeten sugar-free products and xylitol is considered a “sugar-free” sweetener.

Sugar alcohols are neither sugars nor alcohols. They are carbohydrates with a chemical structure that partially resembles sugar and partially resembles alcohol, but they don’t contain ethanol as alcoholic beverages do. They are incompletely absorbed and metabolized by the body, and consequently contribute fewer calories. The polyols commonly used include sorbitol, mannitol, xylitol, maltitol, maltitol syrup, lactitol, erythritol, and isomalt.

Xylitol is the sweetest of all the sugar alcohols and has the greatest impact on the bacteria that cause tooth decay. A recent study also shows that most consumers prefer the taste of xylitol to that of other sugar-free sweeteners.

How long has xylitol been used for humans?

Xylitol was originally discovered in the 1890’s and has been used extensively in Europe since World War II. Although originally approved by the FDA in 1963, as a special food additive, xylitol is relatively new to the US market. Because of recent studies demonstrating its dental benefits, the market for xylitol in the US is rapidly expanding.

In many countries, including Finland, Sweden, Japan and South Korea, xylitol is commonly used in all types of dental care and confectionery products. In fact, in these countries it’s hard to even find chewing gum without xylitol.

Say, they smile a lot in those countries, don’t they?

It’s anecdotal research at best, but we noticed that too.

Xylitol Safety and Side Effects

Xylitol is safe, endorsed by leading dentists

Xylitol is a safe, all-natural sweetener that has been proven to reduce tooth decay. A commission of the FDA approved xylitol as safe for human consumption and acceptable as a food additive.

Dentists around the world recommend xylitol. As recently as March 2006, articles in the Journal of the American Dental Association have highlighted xylitol’s cavity-fighting properties. Other national dental associations in Finland, Sweden, Norway, Iceland, Estonia, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom and Ireland all recommend xylitol to prevent cavities.

All of our xylitol products are made from 100% all-natural pharmaceutical grade xylitol and are guaranteed to be free of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and pesticides. We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of quality in our products.

Our xylitol is made in GMP certified facilities. Our raw xylitol manufacturers have received ISO9001 and KOSHER certifications. We do not have a KOSHER certification for our finsihed products.

Xylitol side effects: virtually none

Xylitol is considered a healthy alternative to sugar and lacks major side effects. In fact, most users experience virtually no xylitol side effects when using the recommended dosage (usually 6-8 grams) for dental benefits.

Some people who use xylitol in large quantities (usually more than 40 grams/day) may initially experience diarrhea. Many of these people report that the diarrhea subsides even with continued excessive use as their digestive systems adjusts to the xylitol.

Because it is a low glycemic sweetener, xylitol has only small effects on blood sugar and insulin release. Many diabetics consider it a safe alternative to sugar and many dieters use it in low carb diets.

Is xylitol safe for children?

Xylitol has been approved for use by people of all ages. Studies suggest that children especially can benefit from using xylitol.

Ideal exposure time is best determined by the family’s dentist or pediatrician. Dosage amounts will vary as children age, but in most cases as few as 5-8 grams a day will provide tremendous benefits.

Some dentists also recommend that the parents of young children regularly use xylitol gum or mints to reduce the spread of cavity-causing bacteria. Studies have shown as much as an 80% reduction in cavities for children whose mothers used xylitol gum during the first few years of her child’s life.

Is Xylitol safe for diabetics?

Many diabetics use xylitol as a replacement for sugar because it is considered a low glycemic sweetener. In fact, xylitol is only an 11 on the glycemic index.

Because the primary goal for nutritional management of diabetes is to maintain near-normal blood glucose levels, polyols, including xylitol, which produce a lower glycemic response than sucrose or glucose may be useful in diabetic diets.

Still, people with diabetes should consult their physician, dietitian or other health professional before incorporating xylitol or other sugar alcohols into their daily meal plans.

Xylitol should not be used for pets, especially dogs

Because of xylitol’s tremendous benefits, many people want to share it with their pets. Although perfectly safe for human consumption, xylitol may pose a risk to your pets, especially dogs.

Because the metabolic processes of a dog are different than those of a human, xylitol poses a risk of toxicosis and hypoglycemia if ingested by dogs. Common symptoms associated with the ingestion of xylitol may include depression and vomiting, and hypoglycemia. If you suspect your dog has ingested xylitol, contact your veterinarian immediately.

How about pet crocodiles?

To the best of our knowledge, there’s been no clinical research on crocodiles, nor alligators, nor even caymans (clearly the Larry of the lizard-like grouping). However, we strongly urge you to consult your veterinarian. As for us? We’re calling the humane society. Now.

Xylitol Dental Benefits

Xylitol prevents cavities, reduces plaque when used consistently

Xylitol fights cavities by disrupting decay-causing bacteria. It stops them from producing tooth-eating acid and reduces the plaque they create.

Xylitol also stimulates saliva, the body’s natural way to protect the teeth. Studies have shown that the consistent use of at least 6-8 grams of xylitol daily can reduce cavities by as much as 80%. Less than 6-8 grams daily may not be enough to have an impact.

To make sure you get at least 6-8 grams daily, we recommend the following dosage found most accessibly in our Slippery Smile Kits.

TimeRecommended Dosage
In the A.M. Brush your teeth with Epic Toothpaste
After Each Meal 1 piece of Epic Gum or 2 Epic Mints
After Snacks 1 piece of Epic Gum or 2 Epic Mints
In the P.M. Brush your teeth with Epic Toothpaste
After Brushing Rinse with Epic Oral Rinse

Xylitol can even be used to prevent cavities in children

Epic's fresh fruit xylitol mints and gum are ideal for helping kids to prevent tooth decay. With regular use, studies have shown that xylitol can actually help teeth to rebuild decayed spots.

In fact, in most of the xylitol research studies, children have been the key participants. These studies have shown that 6-8 grams of xylitol daily can help reduce cavities in kids by as much as 80%.

Parents of young children may also reduce the spread of decay-causing bacteria to their children, by consistently using xylitol gum and mints themselves. Xylitol has been confirmed to slow the transmission of these contagious bacteria.

Xylitol used by the US Military to prevent cavities

When the military noticed that deployed soldiers got substantially more cavities than those that stayed at home, they knew they had to take steps to stops the problem. They turned to xylitol.

Because studies show that the regular use of xylitol gum can help prevent cavities even when brushing is not convenient, it is an ideal solution for soldiers. In fact, the military has approved xylitol to replace the gum currently offered in MREs.

The military recommends soldiers use xylitol gum or mints after meals and snacks at least 3-5 times daily.

Xylitol proven to help reduce ear infections

The bacteria that causes tooth decay is quite similar to the bacteria that causes most ear infections in children. As a result researchers tested xylitol to see if it could help prevent ear infections.

Researchers found that kids who consistently chewed xylitol gum had 40% fewer ear infections than those who did not. They also found that these children needed fewer antibiotic treatments.

Many pediatricians recommend xylitol gum and mints to help reduce the incidence of ear infections (acute otitis media.)

Because xylitol is safe, all-natural and convenient, many parents encourage their children to use it daily.

Will xylitol improve my dating life?

Research is inconclusive. If you’d like to travel to our offices in Utah, we’d consider asking the white-coated-folks to take a look at you and ask about your interests and goals and other matters of a more hygienic nature.

We can safely say, however, that it won’t hurt. You’ll smile more and more confidently knowing you’ve got a healthy smile. Simply tucking a tin of Epic Mints into your pocket would be an awfully good first step. It wouldn’t hurt to put your lunchbox collection up on eBay either. Think we could get the Scooby Doo one? Please?

Where can I get xylitol?

Can I get xylitol at my local grocery store?

In many cases, you may be able to find some products that use small amounts of xylitol.

Unfortunately, most brands that use xylitol contain only a tiny amount of it (less than 0.17g per piece of gum.) At this rate, it would take seven pieces of gum to get the same amount of xylitol that is in just one piece of Epic xylitol gum.

Epic high-xylitol content products make getting enough xylitol to impact your health far easier and far less expensive than you can find with typical over-the-counter products. And with Epic’s Cavity-Free Club, we guarantee your results – something other brands aren’t even willing to try.

Not all xylitol products are created equal – product comparison

As a result of the many obvious benefits of xylitol, many larger companies have begun to find it fashionable and profitable to add a little to their products. Take for example, gum.

All Xylitol Gum is NOT the Same! Larger companies simply can’t compete with our steadfast focus on improving your oral health through xylitol.

Check out this chart. Epic simply gives you more xylitol for less money.

BrandGrams per PieceCost per Day*
(6 grams)
Epic 1.06 $0.56
Richochet 0.72 $0.60
Spry 0.72 $0.69
Clen Dent 0.72 $0.75
Xponent 0.72 $0.94
B-Fresh 0.85 $1.06
Xylichew 0.72 $1.15
Omnii 0.72 $1.25
Trident 0.17 $3.50
* Cost calculated from normal retail pricing.

Jennifer Bedsworth discovered the difference:

“I love Epic sugar-free gum. It keeps my dry mouth moist, doesn’t stick to teeth or dental work, and promotes healthy teeth and gums. Epic uses xylitol as its sweetener and no aspartame nor other bad additives. The gums are dye free, with full, fresh natural flavoring. I’ve tried all the rest, but I stick with the best.”

“Epic’s mint flavored gums are excellent after meals. They not only protect my teeth, but also leave my mouth feeling refreshed and clean.”

“It’s hard to limit my words when I can rave a lot. I’ve tried all the gums out there and some of them taste great. Yet a lot of them stick to my dental work and none of them have the xylitol content Epic has. I can chew one piece of Epic at a time, when two are required with the other brands. As an avid gum chewer, I can’t tell you how much I save with Epic. Epic is the best value!”

The efficacy of xylitol depends on usage. Studies suggest 4-6 uses per day, especially after meals and snacks, of at least one gram. Meeting this requirement can be quite costly with other brands. We, however, make it breathtakingly simple. Join Jennifer, and many others, and discover for yourself what sets Epic apart from the competition!

Note, too, that for purposes of comparison we’ve chosen Epic Gum vs. the other brands. We chose to leave out toothpaste and mouthwash and the like because so few people brush six times a day that the cost comparison would be downright silly. Simply put, we have gobs (estimate) more xylitol than they do, and we tuck our shirts in, play well with others, and always find time to nurse injured squirrels back to health.

Does Trident® gum have enough xylitol to help prevent cavities?

A recently published study shows that we need 6-8 grams of xylitol daily in order to reduce cavity-causing bacteria. Smaller amounts do not have a meaningful impact on the bacteria.

Based on our most recent tests, Trident® gum has 0.17 grams of xylitol in each piece*. That means you would need to chew more than 35 pieces of Trident each day to reduce decay causing bacteria. Trident relies on sorbitol for the bulk of its sweetener.

An article in the February 2006 Journal of the American Dental Association, encourages dentists to recommend their patients chew sorbitol-sweetened gum no more than three times daily, because larger amounts increase acid production and decay-causing bacteria.

Epic gum contains 1.06 grams of xylitol per 1.5 gram serving, more xylitol grams/serving than any other gum available in the US.

An independent lab tested Trident Original with xylitol, Lot #02405RE with a high performance liquid chromatograph to determine the xylitol content.

My cousin, Ernie, says chewing birch root’s better. What do you say?

We say you can’t pick family. Have Ernie call us when he gets his phone reconnected.

How much xylitol is necessary to be effective?

Recommended xylitol regimen for cavity prevention

Research shows that we need 6-8 grams of xylitol daily to fight cavities. Smaller amounts of xylitol simply don’t work.

Most dentists recommend that we use xylitol at least 3 times each day. The most ideal times to use xylitol are the times when we are at greatest risk – after meals, snacks and sodas. Because xylitol comes in gums and mints, it can be used conveniently at these critical times.

Xylitol should also be integrated into your regular oral hygiene habits including brushing and rinsing. We recommend that you follow the chart below to make sure you get 6-8 grams each day.

TimeRecommended Dosage
In The A.M. Brush your teeth with Epic Toothpaste
After Each Meal 1 piece of Epic Gum or 2 Epic Mints
After Snacks 1 piece of Epic Gum or 2 Epic Mints
In The P.M. Brush your teeth with Epic Toothpaste
After Brushing Rinse with Epic Oral Rinse

Recent clinical trial recommends 6 grams daily

A study published in the prestigious Journal of Dental Research in February 2006 showed that patients using at least 6 grams of xylitol daily saw a meaningful decrease in cavity-causing bacteria. Those using as much as 3 grams of xylitol did not.

This difference is important as most sugar-free gums do not contain enough xylitol to impact tooth decay. Epic gum is different from these other gums as it has 1.06 grams of xylitol in each piece. When you combine the Epic gum with the other xylitol products in the Epic Cavity-Free system, as few as 3-4 pieces each day stops cavities, guaranteed.

Is using xylitol all I have to do to prevent cavities?

With the Epic xylitol system, we guarantee no new cavities. An important part of our cavity-free guarantee is a visit to your dentist for a cleaning and checkup at least once every 200 days.

Good oral hygiene habits are an important part of maintaining your healthy smile. We recommend that you continue with your normal hygiene habits, including regular brushing with xylitol toothpaste and flossing.

Do I need a prescription to use xylitol?

Xylitol is an all-natural sweetener and does not require a prescription. Still, we recommend you use the products on a regular schedule (following meals, snacks and sodas) to ensure that you receive their full benefits.

Most dentists recommend at least 6-8 grams of xylitol each day. Epic’s convenient gum, mints toothpaste and mouthwash, make obtaining these exposures easy.

Epic Cavity-Free Guarantee Program

How does the guarantee work?

Epic's xylitol system is so effective we guarantee it will work for you.

How the Guarantee Works:

  1. Begin with a complete dental cleaning and comprehensive exam.
  2. Afterwards, simply call us at 866-920-4200 to join the Epic Cavity-Free Club and register for the Cavity-Free Guaranteed™ Program. During your call, we will work with you to set an appropriate dosage and to create a shipping schedule for your chosen products. When you receive the products, simply use them as directed.
  3. See your dentist for a complete cleaning and comprehensive exam once every 200 days.

If you ever get a new cavity, we will completely refund the money you have spent on Epic products since the date of your last dental visit.

Registration required for the guarantee

Because we want to make sure you get enough xylitol to really stop cavities, we require you to register for the guarantee.

Registering is simple. Just call us at 800-494-3742 and we will take care of the details for you.

Joining the Cavity-Free Club

Epic Xylitol is most effective when used regularly (see recommended usage frequency).

Make sure you never run out by having your Epic Xylitol products sent to you automatically, at just the right time!

You may change your preferred flavors & products, or cancel at any time by calling our customer service department.

Will you marry me?

We get that a lot. We’re flattered, but we’re happily married with lots of children now, thank you.