01 Oct 5 Benefits of Oral Probiotics
Probiotics have become well known recently for their contributions to a healthy gut. However, new evidence is suggesting that they contribute to dental health as well. Although the FDA has not yet endorsed the medical use of oral probiotics, many studies have shown that probiotics can boost your dental health. As a holistic dentist in Prescott, everything that we do at Prescott Dentistry is with prevention in mind. And oral probiotics are one of the best ways to prevent dental diseases. Here are just a few of the things they can do for your oral health:
1. Fight Bad Breath
Harmful bacteria in the mouth and gut are often responsible for halitosis, or bad breath. In a 2006 study, 23 people were given an antimicrobial mouthwash followed by either a placebo or a supplement containing the probiotic Streptococcus salivarius. After 3 days, 85% of the participants who received the probiotic experienced a significant improvement in the severity of their halitosis, while only 30% of those who received the placebo did.
2. Prevent Plaque Buildup
A 2016 study showed that a bacterial strain known as A12 combats the bacteria Streptococcus mutans. This harmful bacteria converts sugar into lactic acid, which creates an acidic environment in the mouth, eventually leading to plaque and cavities. When the two bacteria were cultured together in a lab, the A12 bacteria inhibited the growth of S. mutans and thus the formation of plaque.
3. Reduce Inflammation
In a study conducted in 2007, researchers gave patients with periodontitis supplements containing the bacteria Lactobacillus brevis. Every participant in the study experienced a significant improvement in all of the inflammatory markers that the researchers analyzed. Another study discovered that daily intake of probiotic milk can lower inflammation associated with gingivitis.
4. Prevent Oral Cancer
A 2013 study discovered that a bacterium called Lactobacillus salivarius lowered oral cancer in rats. Another study, conducted in 2018, found that probiotics may prevent oral mucositis in nasopharyngeal carcinoma.
5. Control Gingivitis
A study conducted in 2006 shows that oral probiotics alleviate the symptoms of gingivitis, a common, mild form of gum disease. The scientists gave 59 people with gingivitis a supplement that had either a probiotic called Lactobacillus reuteri or a placebo. After two weeks, the gingivitis symptoms (inflamed, sensitive, or tender gums) improved the most among those who had the highest dose of probiotics. They also had reduced amounts of plaque.
Holistic Dentistry in Prescott
As you can see, oral probiotics are an integral part of a healthy oral care regimen. As the leading holistic dentist in Prescott, we understand the importance of these and other holistic, preventative treatment options. Check out this page to see what else we offer, or give us a call if you have further questions! We look forward to helping you enjoy a lifetime of healthy smiles with oral probiotics and more!
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