A Look at Oral Health Probiotics for Mouth Health
Probiotics have been trending in the health and wellness world for quite some time now. They’re useful for many things, including balancing the gut microbiome and improving immune defenses. But, what’s the deal with oral health probiotics? Are they worth the hype or just another dental fad?
What are oral probiotics?
First things first, oral probiotics are living microorganisms that restore the balance of natural flora in the mouth. There are billions of bacteria living in our mouths and specific types of bacteria can lead to bad breath, cavities, periodontal disease, and other oral health conditions.
Nearly half of the world’s population is dealing with some type of oral disease, which can lead to tooth loss. Oral pathogenic bacteria thrive in conditions like: low salivary flow, low oral pH and high carbohydrate intake.
Here’s where probiotics come in: they can help restore the natural balance of good and bad bacteria. By using beneficial bacteria, dental probiotics may help control oral diseases by:
- Competing for the same space and nutrients as pathogenic bacteria;
- Integrating with the natural biofilm in the mouth to reduce the number of pathogenic bacteria;
- Producing a protective layer on the hard surfaces of teeth;
- Enhancing the immune response to pathogenic bacteria; and
- Maintaining a healthy pH of the mouth.
Restoring this natural balance is crucial to disease prevention.
Benefits of probiotics for oral health
According to the American Dental Association, oral diseases like cavities and periodontal disease are directly related to heart health, uncontrolled diabetes, and even some pregnancy complications. Because bacteria and other microbes cause these oral diseases, it’s crucial to keep them under control.
Oral probiotics are specifically designed to reduce the pathogenic microorganisms in the saliva and replace them with beneficial bacteria. This helps balance the oral flora. Some common oral problems with which probiotics help include the following:
- Gingivitis prevention: Gingivitis is a periodontal disease that causes inflammation and bleeding of the gums. Probiotics help prevent gingivitis by reducing certain bacteria. When you combine good oral hygiene practices with reducing the bacteria that cause gingivitis, probiotics help to combat the disease and improve the mouth’s overall health.
- Cavities: Probiotics can help change the bacteria in dental plaque, which reduces the risk of developing cavities. The bacteria commonly used in probiotics also produce nitrite, which helps kill the pathogenic, cavity-causing bacteria while promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria.
- Periodontal disease: By balancing the good and bad bacteria around the teeth and below the gumline, probiotics may help prevent periodontal infections. By competing for space and nutrients, good bacteria aim to keep the natural flora balanced in the mouth to improve oral health.
- Bad breath: Bacteria settle into the tiny grooves or hard-to-reach areas of the tongue. Many pathogenic bacteria produce volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs), or odors, as byproducts of breaking down organic compounds in the mouth. This can cause bad breath, a medical condition known as halitosis. Oral probiotics can be beneficial for reducing pathogenic tongue bacteria, which means lowering VSCs and preventing odors.
Types of oral probiotics
Many different types of dental probiotic products are available. It is important to note that the cultures used for dental probiotics can vary from probiotics used for gut health. While some strains of bacteria are present in different types of probiotics, using a product specifically for the mouth has the potential to provide the most benefits. Here are the most common types of dental probiotics commonly available:
- Lozenges
- Chewable tablets
- Probiotic drinks
- Chewing gum
- Toothpaste
- Mouthwash
Do note that oral probiotics that are swallowed are less likely to be effective in the mouth. Why? The live cultures in dental probiotics need direct contact with the natural bacteria in the mouth to join forces and balance the oral environment.
Side effects or adverse reactions
Probiotics are considered safe for most people, but side effects can occur. The most commonly reported adverse reactions include:
- Intestinal disturbances: This may include reactions like increased gas, bloating, or constipation; typically mild and temporary.
- Interactions with other medications: Because probiotics can change the gut microbiome, they may interfere with the absorption or effectiveness of certain medications. If you’re taking prescription medications, always consult a healthcare provider before adding dental probiotics to a routine.
- Allergic reactions: Some people may be sensitive to specific strains of bacteria used in oral supplements. Common reactions can include hives, itching, or difficulty breathing. If these interactions occur, discontinue usage and seek medical help.
- Quality control: Probiotics are considered dietary supplements and do not have the same quality and safety standards as medications. Do your research and follow instructions!
How often should you use dental probiotics?
Using probiotics regularly helps encourage the beneficial bacteria and prevents harmful bacteria that cause cavities, periodontal disease, and bad breath from overgrowing. The most important factor is consistency and enabling the probiotics to do their work.
The best ways to monitor your oral health are to schedule your bi-annual checkups and to maintain your regular oral health routine. Have questions? Reach out and ask!
