Does xylitol cause heart attacks?

Aug. 13, 2024

A recent study found that consumption of products containing xylitol and erythritol could contribute to thrombosis, heart attacks, and stroke. What does this mean for dentistry? Join us in Medical History Mysteries.

Pamela Maragliano-Muniz, DMD

Tom Viola, RPh, CCP

Everywhere we look, we find something that seems to be therapeutic for dental disease but that ends up being unsafe. So, what’s this we’re hearing about xylitol?

A recent study found that consumption of products containing xylitol and erythritol, compared to glucose, significantly raised platelet responsiveness in all participants and, therefore, the use of xylitol could contribute to thrombosis, heart attacks, and stroke.

Since we use xylitol in dentistry to treat xerostomia and for caries control, will the results of this study change the way we practice?

Join us in this episode of Medical History Mysteries as we delve deeper into this study and what it means for dentistry.

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Editor’s note: This article first appeared in Clinical Insights newsletter, a publication of the Endeavor Business Media Dental Group. Read more articles and subscribe.

About the Author

Pamela Maragliano-Muniz, DMD

Pamela Maragliano-Muniz, DMD, is the chief editor of DentistryIQ and editorial co-director of Through the Loupes. Based in Salem, Massachusetts, Dr. Maragliano-Muniz began her clinical career as a dental hygienist. She went on to attend Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, where she earned her doctorate in dental medicine. She then attended the University of California, Los Angeles, School of Dental Medicine, where she became board-certified in prosthodontics. Dr. Maragliano-Muniz owns a private practice, Salem Dental Arts, and lectures on a variety of clinical topics. You may contact her at [email protected].

About the Author

Tom Viola, RPh, CCP

With more than 30 years’ experience as a board-certified pharmacist, clinical educator, professional speaker, and published author, Tom Viola, RPh, CCP, has earned the reputation as the go-to specialist for making pharmacology practical and useful for dental teams. He is the founder of Pharmacology Declassified and is a member of the faculty of more than 10 dental professional degree programs. Viola has contributed to several professional journals and pharmacology textbooks, and currently serves as a consultant to the American Dental Association’s Council on Scientific Affairs.