Diet and oral health: probiotics and their use in the periodontal prophylaxis
Maintaining good oral health is essential for overall well-being, and diet plays a significant role in oral health. The oral microbiome made of a diverse community of microorganisms, is influenced by individual factors such as age, gender, environment, as well as dietary choices and its imbalances in the oral microbiota have been associated with dental caries and periodontitis. Periodontitis, a common chronic inflammatory condition of the oral cavity, is a significant public health concern worldwide. It is characterized by the destruction of bone and gum tissues that support the teeth and can lead to tooth loss. The primary cause of periodontal damage is the host-mediated inflammatory and immune responses to the accumulation of microbial plaque. Dietary choices, including the intake of high in acid and sugar foods, can influence the composition of the oral microbiota and contribute to the development of periodontal disease.
Recent studies have focused on the role of probiotics in managing periodontal diseases. Probiotics are beneficial microorganisms that can modify the composition of the sub-gingival microbiota, decrease the concentration of periodontal pathogens, and improve clinical parameters associated with periodontitis. Probiotic species belonging to genera like Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Streptococcus, and Weissella have shown promising results in promoting periodontal health. Clinical trials have demonstrated that probiotics, when used as adjuvant therapy alongside conventional treatments, can lead to significant improvements in periodontal health without any significant side effects. However, the effectiveness and safety of probiotics in managing periodontal diseases remain controversial, and further research is needed. Factors such as probiotic species, dosage, combination of probiotics, and evaluation indices should be carefully considered. Additionally, more systematic studies on the safety profile of probiotics are necessary to ensure their safe application. Consequently, to ensure best dental care, the use of probiotics shows promise in preventing and treating periodontal diseases by modulating the oral microbiota. However, further research is needed to determine the optimal use of probiotics and their long-term effects on oral health.
