Xylitol is a well‑characterized sugar alcohol with strong, consistent evidence for dental caries prevention when used habitually at modest doses (typically 5–10 g/day delivered across multiple exposures). It offers fewer calories than sucrose and a minimal effect on blood glucose. Human tolerability is dose‑dependent (GI symptoms at higher intakes) and species‑specific toxicity to dogs is severe and potentially fatal. A number of promising non‑dental effects are reported in animal models and small human trials (prebiotic fermentation, sinonasal benefit, modest AOM prevention, topical skin improvements), but these require larger, targeted human studies. Practical use: moderate habitual dosing for dental benefit, gradual introduction to assess tolerance, careful storage away from pets, and continued research to clarify long‑term systemic safety.