Is xylitol gum good for young kids?

Xylitol is a sugarless sweetener that's gaining popularity as an ingredient in candy, chewing gum and toothpaste. Although xylitol has many potential health benefits, particularly for preventing dental cavities, ingesting large amounts of the sweetener could pose some health risks for children. read more

To prevent ear infections, you can give your child 10 g of xylitol syrup or 8.4 g of xylitol gum each day in two or three separate doses. In some cases, xylitol doses can range up to 20 g daily for dental cavities and up to 2 g five times daily for ear infections, notes the University of Michigan Health System. read more

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, gum isn't recommended for young kids due to the risk of them swallowing and choking on it. However, xylitol as an ingredient is fairly safe for children if given in moderation. read more

If it is not possible for your child to brush his or her teeth after a meal, chewing gum is a good alternative. However, chewing gum is no substitute for brushing and flossing. You should be sure to give your child only sugar-free gum, preferably a variety that contains xylitol, recaldent, or calcium lactate. read more