Antimicrobial effect of different xylitol concentrations on Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus acidophilus count

In recent years, pentacarbon sugars including xylitol are employed as supplements in the preparation of oral health products. The main purpose of this study was to measure Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus acidophilus count treated with different xylitol concentrations. Bacterial solutions were mixed separately in to 2 M (30.43%) xylitol stock solution. The mixture provided bacterial growth medium with 3-18% of xylitol. The solutions stored in a 37°C incubator for 48 h. Initial optical density and optical density of samples after 48 h taken using spectrophotometer. Result shown in average, bacterial growth in L. acidophilus was higher than S. mutans and even in higher xylitol concentration this difference preserved. The present study indicates that the addition of xylitol drastically can enhance the effect of antibacterial agent.