Which additive is known to help control dental caries by preventing the transmission of cariogenic bacteria from mother to infant?

Xylitol is a sugar alcohol that has been extensively researched and found to have properties that help in the prevention of dental caries by disrupting the growth and transmission of cariogenic bacteria, specifically Streptococcus mutans. This bacterium is primarily responsible for the development of dental caries and can be transmitted from the mother to the infant. When xylitol is consumed, it interferes with the metabolism of Streptococcus mutans, reducing their ability to produce acids that contribute to tooth decay.

Research has shown that the use of xylitol by expecting mothers can significantly lower the levels of cariogenic bacteria in their mouths and thus reduce the chances of these bacteria being passed on to their infants. Additionally, xylitol is non-cariogenic, meaning it does not contribute to cavity formation, making it a suitable additive for both dental health and as a sweetening agent.

Other options such as sorbitol and artificial sweeteners do not exhibit the same level of effectiveness in preventing the transmission of cariogenic bacteria. They may not influence the bacterial activity in the same beneficial way that xylitol does, making xylitol a unique and effective choice for caries prevention in this context.