Introduction Dental caries is an infectious disease with predominantly of cariogenic bacteria such as Streptococcus mutans (S mutans). Xylitol is considered as one of the effective agents that can limit this dental infection. In this randomised, placebo‐controlled trial, we aimed to evaluate the potential reflection of short‐term xylitol consumption on pro‐inflammatory cytokines (TNF‐α, IL‐6 and IL‐8) and S mutans counts by ELISA and qPCR (Quantitative real‐time PCR), respectively. Methods In this study, 154 participants were assigned to two groups, control and xylitol. Dental examination, saliva and swab samples were done at baseline and at 3‐week for clinical and microbiological assessment. Results In xylitol group at the end of 3‐week, gingival and plaque index scores were significantly decreased with respect to baseline values (P < .001 and P < .05, respectively). The salivary concentration of TNF‐α, IL‐6 and IL‐8 were statistically declined at 3‐week, more so than those at baseline in xylitol group (P < .001). S mutans expression was reduced about fivefold at 3‐week use of xylitol and it was a statistically significant difference compared to baseline (P < .001). Conclusion Intriguingly, even short‐term consumption of xylitol might play a favourable role in maintaining the oral health status, possibly as a result of decreasing the release of pro‐inflammatory cytokines and the counts of S mutans. Nonetheless, this investigation warrants further endorsement.

Aim: To compare the effect of mylar strip and glycerin topical application on the surface roughness of composite, compomer, and carbomer during polymerization. Materials and Method: Each of 45 disc-shaped specimens of Z250, Dyract, Carbomer, were prepared according to manufacturer’s instructions and molded in silicone rubber molds by one operator (5 mm diameter × 2 mm thickness; n = 135). Each restorative group was divided into 3 groups as oxygen group (control), mylar strip, and glycerin group (n = 15). In the control group, specimens were light cured in the open air for 40 s, whereas in the test groups they were covered either with a mylar strip or a drop of glycerin solution and cured for 40 s. Glycerin was rinsed off before polishing. Sof-Lex discs were used for polishing before the surface roughness measurements by a profilometer. The obtained data were statistically analyzed using two-way analysis of variance at a confidence level of 95% ( P < .05). Results: The mean surface roughness values of composite, compomer, and carbomer polymerized in air, through mylar strip and glycerin showed no statistically significant difference ( P > .05). Conclusion: Mylar strip and glycerin application did not affect the surface roughness of the composite, compomer, and carbomer. Polishing may mask the effect of different curing conditions.