The benefits of probiotics have been widely known for the general human health. Probiotics can alter the existing flora; enhance beneficial host-microbial function, leading to prevention of inflammation or other systemic conditions.
Recently, it was shown that probiotic administration that contains Bifidobacterium animalis and Lactobacillus reuteri caused decreased number of bleeding sites, plaque and gingival indices associated with gingivitis. Here, we assess, through a published systematic review of 10 double blind clinical trials, whether probiotics administration can show benefits in resolving gingivitis.
Almost 50% of the studies assessed showed significant improvements of periodontal inflammatory scores. Although most studies used different composition of probiotics, it was seen that probiotics containing L. reuteri showed consistent benefits for improving gingival health.
When treating patients with generalized or local gingivitis, it was shown that removing hard and soft calculus deposits had an even greater benefit to periodontal health when combined with probiotic treatment. It is believed that probiotics have an even greater benefit when superficial plaque or biofilm is first removed.
The mechanism of action of how probiotics improve gingival health is not fully known. Other research has indicated that probiotics can enhance signal transduction pathways in epithelial and immune cells. Furthermore, probiotics can induce toll-like receptors (TLRs) to produce epithelial repair factors. Lastly, probiotics can regulate the production of proinflammatory cytokines.
So, in addition to regular hygiene protocol, the addition of probiotics can add a punch to the fight again gingivitis.