Final answer:
Sugar alcohols do not contribute to tooth decay in the same way as regular sugars because they are fermented to nonacidic compounds or not fermented, resulting in less acid production. They are absorbed more slowly than sugar and can have laxative effects in excess. Fluoride treatments and dental cleanings also prevent decay by strengthening teeth and removing plaque.
Step-by-step explanation:
Sugar alcohols are related to tooth decay because they do not serve as a food source for Streptococcus mutans, the bacteria primarily involved in the development of dental caries. While regular sugars like sucrose can be fermented by oral bacteria, producing acidic compounds such as lactic acid that lead to the demineralization of tooth enamel, sugar alcohols like xylitol are not metabolized in the same way. Instead, they are fermented to nonacidic compounds or not fermented at all, thereby reducing the production of acids that cause tooth decay.
Fluoride treatment and regular dental cleanings also play a crucial role in preventing decay by strengthening tooth minerals and removing tartar, which is a hardened form of plaque that contributes to the decay process. When it comes to absorption, sugar alcohols are generally absorbed into the bloodstream through the small intestine at a slower rate than sugar, which can lead to less of an impact on blood sugar levels.
However, sugar alcohols can have a laxative effect when consumed in large quantities, as they are often not completely absorbed and therefore reach the large intestine, where they can draw in water and cause gastrointestinal distress. As for regular dental care, it also identifies early decay and damage to enamel from acidic drinks and helps in managing risks associated with soft drinks which have been linked to dental and metabolic conditions.