The number of products containing probiotics, viable bacteria with proven health benefits,
entering the market is increasing. Traditionally, probiotics have been associated
with gut health, and most clinical interest has been focused on their use for prevention
or treatment of gastrointestinal infections and diseases; however, during the last
decade several investigators have also suggested the use of probiotics for oral health
purposes. The aim of this review is to examine potential mechanisms of probiotic bacteria
in the oral cavity and summarize observed effects of probiotics with respect to oral
health. The review focuses on probiotic lactobacilli and bifidobacteria, genera that
are most used in various probiotic products. (Eur J Dent 2010;4:348-355)
Keywords
Probiotics - Oral health -
Lactobacillus
-
Bifidobacterium