In This Healthy Insight:

1. What is Xlear?
2. What is Spry?
3. What is Xylitol?
4. How to use nasal sprays
5. How to use an oral rinse
6. How often should you use mouthwash?
7. How does mouthwash work?
8. Where to buy Xlear products and are they right for me?

What is Xlear? 

Xlear, pronounced “clear”, is the leading manufacturer of xylitol-based products in North America. The company goal of Xlear is to provide easy and cost-effective prevention so people can live healthy and fulfilling lives. Their product line includes drug-free sinus care marketed under the Xlear brand, an oral care product line, branded as Spry, and a line of natural Xylitol sweeteners. 

What is Spry?

Spry is the xylitol-based oral care product line from Xlear. Not only do the oral rinses refresh breath and keep your mouth clean, when used with proper brushing and flossing on a daily basis, they also can fight cavities and help eliminate the build-up of bacteria. All with no over-powering burning sensation. 

What is Xylitol?

Xylitol is a natural sugar from fibrous fruits and vegetables that is a great choice when looking for sweeteners and sugar alternatives. It has a similar sweetness to regular sugar but has 40% fewer calories.  When you buy it in the store, it’s a white, crystalline powder. 

How to use nasal sprays

Nasal sprays, which come in regular spray or a cannister, typically treat problems in the nose or sinus and are available by prescription or over the counter. It’s important to know how to correctly use them in order to get the maximum benefit.

Step 1 – Read the directions to see if shaking the bottle is necessary and how many sprays per nostril are required. 

Step 2 – Gently blow your nose.

Step 3 – Wash your hands with soap and water.

Step 4 – Before spraying make sure you can sniff through each nostril to ensure the medicine will go into your nostril properly and not be wasted. 

Step 5 – Use your finger to close one nostril not receiving the spray and insert the bottle tip into the other nostril. Remove the tip and sniff once or twice. Aim straight. Point the nozzle of the nasal spray container toward the back of your head. It should not run out or go down your throat. 

Step 6 – Wait 10-15 seconds before spraying the other nostril. 

Step 7 – Repeat for the other nostril. 

Step 8 – Wait a few minutes to blow your nose.

Step 9 – Wash hands and store spray as recommended.

How to use an oral rinse

Some people use mouthwash during the day to fight bad breath, which is fine, but keep in mind oral rinses aren’t going to work to strengthen tooth enamel or fight gum disease unless you use it right after brushing and flossing. Since product directions can vary, be sure to always follow what’s on the package. 

Here are the basic instructions for most kinds of mouthwash.

• Brush and floss your teeth. 
• Measure out mouthwash per directions. Typically that can be done using the mouthwash cap, which usually amounts to 3-5 teaspoons. 
• Swish. Empty the cup into your mouth and swish it around for about 30 seconds. 
• Spit it out

How often should you use mouthwash?

It bears repeating that mouthwash isn’t a replacement for brushing and flossing. It’s also not necessary to use mouthwash in order to keep your mouth clean, but it is part of a healthy oral hygiene routine. It seems individuals who use an oral rinse morning and evening do have healthier gums and teeth than those who do not use mouthwash regularly. 

How does mouthwash work?

Mouthwash ingredients differ from brand to brand, but generally they work to kill bacteria by using antiseptic ingredients including alcohol and menthol, which is why they sometimes sting. These ingredients can get into the small spaces between your teeth and other hard-to-reach places. 

Where to buy Xlear products and are they right for me?