Probiotics are good bacteria that are popular for their contributions to healthy digestion; however, scientists are starting to believe they contribute to dental health, too. Although the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has not endorsed the medical use of oral probiotics, many studies have shown that probiotics can help your dental health.
Our mouth contains different kinds of bacteria, and some of them are responsible for plaque. A 2016 study revealed that a bacteria strain known as A12 combats a cavity-causing bacterium known as Streptococcus mutans. S. mutans converts sugar into lactic acid to create an acidic environment in the mouth, which causes plaque and cavities. When the two bacteria were cultured together in a lab, the A12 bacteria inhibited the growth of S. mutans and plaque formation.
Multiple studies have checked the efficacy of probiotics against bad breath. The bacteria present in the mouth or gut usually cause bad breath. In a study, 23 people were given an antimicrobial mouthwash and then either a placebo or supplement containing the probiotic Streptococcus salivarius for three days. At the end of the study, 83 percent of the candidates given the probiotic witnessed a significant reduction in the number of odor-causing bacteria in their oral cavity.
A 2013 study discovered that a bacterium called Lactobacillus salivarius lowered oral cancer in rats. However, more studies are necessary to verify this effect.
A study conducted in 2006 postulated that oral probiotics alleviate the symptoms of gingivitis, also known as gum disease. The symptoms of gingivitis include inflamed, tender or sensitive gums. The scientists gave 59 people with gingivitis a supplement that had either a probiotic bacterium called Lactobacillus reuteri or a placebo. When the candidates returned two weeks later, the researchers discovered that the gingivitis symptoms improved among those who had the highest dose of probiotics. These people also had less plaque occurrence.
Research showed that probiotic bacteria can help reduce inflammation caused by gum diseases. A study conducted in 2007 discovered that people who used supplements containing the bacteria Lactobacillus brevis had lower inflammation. Another study discovered that daily intake of probiotic milk can reduce oral inflammation.
Probiotics are typically safe. Nevertheless, you should never use them if your immune system is compromised. Pregnant women, seniors and children should avoid consuming high levels of oral probiotics without first consulting their physician. Probiotics are usually available in food or in a concentrated state as supplements, which may be in the form of pills, powders or mouthwashes. The best food sources of probiotics are enriched or fermented foods.
Ideally, you should stick with the recommended dosage of oral probiotics as directed by the manufacturers. Also, before using any supplement, ensure you consult your dentist or doctor to have the best chance of success and safety.
Request an appointment here: https://www.ddsbaik.com or call Dennis Baik, DDS at (408) 676-5321 for an appointment in our San Jose office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Preventative Dental Care.
A mouth guard is a protective covering worn over teeth to protect them while playing sports or grinding them at night. In the past, the use of mouth guards was mostly restricted to athletes. These days, more parents are following their dentists' advice and getting mouth guards for their kids who participate in physical sports.Every…
If you find yourself scared of visiting the dentist or undergoing dental procedures, you might benefit from sedation dentistry. Most people dealing with dental anxiety would rather endure pain from dental issues instead of meet with the dentist. Sedation dentistry can help you deal with your dental fears and relax in the dentist's chair. The…
Replacing your missing tooth protects your dental health while restoring the appearance of your smile. Replacing a lost tooth with an oral prosthetic often starts with a consultation with a dentist. The dentist evaluates the patient’s teeth and gums before recommending missing teeth replacement options that are best suited for them.Consulting with a dentist about…
Periodontics care is specialized dental care for treating and preventing periodontal disease from reappearing. Scaling and root planing may be performed on patients with periodontal disease to eliminate bacterial plaque and other toxins. Gum disease-causing bacteria can reappear three to four months after initial treatment. As a result, the dentist will recommend coming for cleanings…
Find out if your child should be wearing a mouth guard while playing sports.
Patients will take medications that will push them into a near unconscious or fully unconscious…
Consulting with a dentist about replacing a missing tooth is not much different than a…
Deep cleanings are usually performed three to four times a year at the dental office.
Dental veneers are coverings that sit on the front, visible surfaces of the teeth.
You may not think much about TMJ disorder unless a dentist diagnoses you with it.…