"In addition, xylitol has a number of other effects on
S mutans that may account for some of its clinical effects
in caries reduction. Short-term consumption of xylitol is
associated with decreased S mutans levels in both saliva
and plaque.15 Long-term habitual consumption of xylitol
appears to have a selective effect on S mutans strains. This
results in selection for populations that are less virulent
and less capable of adhering to tooth surfaces and, thus, are
shed more easily from plaque into saliva."
from https://www.aapd.org/globalassets/media/publications/archive...
"In addition, xylitol has a number of other effects on S mutans that may account for some of its clinical effects in caries reduction. Short-term consumption of xylitol is associated with decreased S mutans levels in both saliva and plaque.15 Long-term habitual consumption of xylitol appears to have a selective effect on S mutans strains. This results in selection for populations that are less virulent and less capable of adhering to tooth surfaces and, thus, are shed more easily from plaque into saliva."