Oral probiotics are strains of bacteria that promote good oral health. Bacteria naturally exist in the mouth, and oral probiotics help boost levels of beneficial bacteria. This helps prevent certain dental conditions that can arise from high levels of harmful bacteria in the mouth, such as periodontitis or tooth decay.
Schedule an appointment with Valley Dental Care of Plainfield for a check-up and exam to determine if probiotics can improve your mouth’s microbiome.
Prevent the Formation of Plaque
Some of the bacteria naturally found in the mouth can cause the development of plaque. A 2016 study found that a type of bacteria (A12) helps prevent the growth of Streptococcus mutans, a bacteria that is known to lead to plaque growth.
A12 encouraged the promotion of a stable, healthy biofilm, moderated plaque pH, and prevented the growth of cavity pathogens.
Fight Germs that Cause Bad Breath
The primary cause of bad breath is unhealthy bacteria in the mouth, throat, and upper digestive system, which produce foul-smelling sulfur compounds as a byproduct of metabolism.
Taking an oral probiotic can help prevent the formation of these harmful bacteria. According to a study performed in 2013, supplementing with oral probiotics reduced the growth of bacteria that causes bad breath in 85% of participants.
Prevent Oral Cancer
While there is not an abundance of human trial data to draw from, preliminary research in rats has been promising regarding the potential of oral probiotics to reduce the risk of oral cancers. A 2013 study found that bacteria found in oral probiotics, Lactobacillus salivarius, reduced instances of oral cancer in rats.
Manage Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease and causes inflammation in the gums as a result of unhealthy bacteria in tartar and plaque on the gums.
During a 2006 study, individuals with gingivitis were instructed to consume an oral probiotic of varying dosages. The study found that those who took probiotics had less plaque and fewer gingivitis symptoms in just two weeks.
Lower Inflammation Due to Gum Disease
Several clinical studies have shown promise in the use of oral probiotics to lower inflammation from gum disease. One study from 2007 found that gum disease patients who took oral probiotics had less inflammation.
Another study found that consuming foods and beverages with high levels of oral probiotics, such as probiotic milk, reduced oral inflammation.
Dietary Sources of Probiotics
While it is often more convenient to consume probiotics using a dietary supplement, several foods contain probiotics. It is essential to eat a varied diet, with as many of the following probiotic-rich foods included as possible:
- Probiotic milk. Probiotic milk is regular dairy milk fortified with an assortment of probiotics, including oral probiotics. This is a great way to work probiotics into your diet.
- Yogurt. Greek yogurt contains live and active cultures, which include beneficial probiotics.
- Kefir. Kefir is milk treated with kefir, originating in the North Caucasus mountains. This milk contains a high concentration of probiotics that can help improve oral health.
- Sauerkraut. Sauerkraut is cabbage fermented with lactic acid bacteria, which promotes oral health.
Probiotic Guidance at Valley Dental Care of Plainfield
If you have questions about including oral probiotic supplements or foods high in oral probiotics in your diet, speak with an experienced dentist at Valley Dental Care of Plainfield.