Effect of xylitol on Porphyromonas gingivalis: A systematic review

OBJECTIVE: This review was conducted to assess the effectiveness of xylitol against Porphyromonas gingivalis anaerobic species, a key microbe contributing to periodontal disease pathogenesis. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Relevant studies published on seven online databases (Cochrane, Ovid, Pubmed, Pubmed Central, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Web of Science) were included in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. Inclusion criteria allowed all study designs involving xylitol and P. gingivalis, literature published since the year 2000, and all xylitol delivery forms. RESULTS: The initial search yielded 186 papers. After the removal of duplicates, five reviewers screened every article for eligibility and seven articles were selected for data extraction. Four out of seven included studies assessed the dose‐dependent effect of xylitol on P. gingivalis growth, two studies assessed the effect of xylitol on P. gingivalis‐induced cytokine expression, and one study assessed both domains. CONCLUSIONS: From the in vitro studies included in this systematic review, there is some evidence of xylitol's inhibitory effect on P. gingivalis. However, more evidence derived from in vivo studies is required to confirm its effectiveness warranting their routine use.