Awareness of Dental Students and Faculty Members Regarding Xylitol Products for the Prevention of Dental Caries at a Private Dental College of Karachi

Background: Xylitol’s unique properties make it a valuable tool in dental care. Its capacity to prevent the growing bacteria, especially Streptococci mutans, is crucial in preventing tooth cavities. By disrupting the metabolism of these microorganisms, xylitol aids in plaque reduction and acids that can lead to tooth decay. This makes xylitol a sugar substitute that offers proactive benefits for oral health care. Recent local literature on the awareness of dental practitioners regarding the preventive effect of xylitol on dental caries remains scant. Objective: To assess dental students’ and faculty members’ awareness of xylitol products for the prevention of dental caries. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at Baqai Dental College, Baqai Medical University, from February 2023 to May 2024. The study sample comprised 196 dental students in clinical years, house officers, and faculty members, among whom a piloted self-structured questionnaire was distributed. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 20. Results: The response rate of the study was 80%. The median age of the respondents was 23.00 (IQR=24.00-23.00) years and 114 (58.2%) were students. The results showed that only 69 (35.2%) of the participants knew the recommended daily dose of xylitol for dental health benefits. About the most likely reason for low prescription of xylitol products, 100 (51.0%) of them cited lack of awareness followed by expense (n=55, 28.1%). Moreover, Only 26 (13.3%) participants had adequate awareness regarding the use of xylitol products for the prevention of dental caries. On multivariable analysis, participants’ source of information regarding xylitol products was found to be significantly associated with their awareness level (aOR=0.12, 95% CI: 0.02-0.50, p=0.004). Conclusion: Only 13.3% of the study population had adequate awareness regarding the use of xylitol products for the prevention of dental caries. Moreover, participants’ source of information regarding xylitol products was found to be significantly associated with their awareness level.