Evaluating the effect of xylitol wipes on cariogenic bacteria in infants and toddlers: a longitudinal clinical trial

BACKGROUND: Xylitol is widely used in caries prevention and has been shown to reduce cariogenic activity in children. However, limited evidence exists regarding the effectiveness of xylitol wipes in infants and toddlers. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effect of xylitol wipes on cariogenic activity in infants and toddlers. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This prospective, longitudinal, single–arm interventional study included 20 healthy, caries–free children aged 9 months to 1.5 years. Mothers were instructed to wipe their children’s teeth with xylitol wipes (Spiffies Baby Tooth Wipes™) three times daily for four weeks. Salivary samples were collected at baseline and weekly follow–up visits. Cariogenic activity was assessed by measuring lactic acid production using a chairside kit (Clinpro Cario L–Pop), and salivary mutans streptococci (MS) levels were determined using the CRT bacteria caries risk test. RESULTS: A highly significant reduction in salivary lactic acid levels was observed after one week of xylitol wipe use (P < 0.0001). A significant reduction in MS counts was observed by the fourth week (P = 0.02). CONCLUSIONS: Daily application of xylitol wipes reduced cariogenic activity in young children, suggesting that this delivery method may be a practical preventive approach during early childhood. TRIAL REGISTRATION: This trial was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (Identifier: NCT07245433) on 14 November 2025.