New Study Reveals Potential Oral Health Benefits of Probiotics

A recent article published on PharmacyTimes.com highlights emerging research suggesting that probiotics, commonly associated with gut health, may also have significant benefits for oral health. The article, written by Aislinn Antrim, Assistant Managing Editor at Pharmacy Times, outlines several key findings from a literature review published in the journal Pharmaceuticals.

Probiotics and Oral Microbiota

According to the article, the oral cavity houses the second-largest number of host microbes after the colon. A diverse and healthy microbiota in the mouth is crucial for preventing oral diseases. The review suggests that probiotics could play a role in maintaining this healthy balance.

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Potential Benefits for Oral Health Conditions

The PharmacyTimes.com article reports on several potential benefits of probiotics for oral health:

• Candidiasis: Studies have shown that probiotics can inhibit the growth of Candida biofilms in vitro.
• Oral mucositis: One study found that Lactobacillus brevis CD2 lozenges reduced the incidence of oral mucositis caused by anticancer therapy.
• Dental caries: Some research indicates a trend towards decreased streptococci in saliva with probiotic use.
• Periodontal disease: Lactobacillus reuteri probiotic has shown effectiveness for gingivitis and periodontal disease.
• Halitosis: Weissella cibaria was studied for its potential in improving halitosis and oral health-related quality of life.

Research Limitations and Future Directions

While the findings are promising, the article notes that many of the studies had small sample sizes and short durations. As quoted in the article, “the study authors noted that the study populations were small and the studies were short, suggesting stronger evidence is needed.”

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Role of Pharmacists

The PharmacyTimes.com article emphasizes the important role pharmacists can play in this area. As stated in the article, “Pharmacists can play a key role in helping patients select OTC probiotic products and counsel patients on when to visit their primary care provider or dentist.”

This emerging field of research suggests that probiotics could potentially offer a new avenue for oral health care, but further studies are needed to fully understand their effects and optimal use in dental health.