Probiotics are known for their role in gut health, but did you know that they can also improve your oral health? The oral microbiome, which includes bacteria, fungi, and viruses, plays a crucial role in maintaining the health of your mouth and overall well-being.

What are probiotics?

Probiotics are living microorganisms that provide health benefits when consumed in adequate amounts. They are usually found in foods such as yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut, or in supplement form.

Probiotics function by restoring the natural balance of microorganisms in the gut and other parts of the body, aiding digestion and boosting the immune system.

The oral microbiome

The human mouth is home to an array of microorganisms that form a delicate balance known as the oral microbiome. The oral microbiome comprises over 700 species of bacteria, most of which are harmless.

However, certain bacteria like Streptococcus mutans are known to cause dental cavities, gingivitis, and other oral diseases.

How probiotics improve oral health

Probiotics have been found to play a significant role in improving oral health. Here are some ways in which they do so:.

1. Reducing harmful bacteria

Probiotics have been found to reduce harmful oral bacteria like S. mutans, which is known to cause cavities and gum disease. They do so by creating a more acidic environment in the mouth, making it difficult for harmful bacteria to survive.

Probiotics also produce hydrogen peroxide, which is a natural antiseptic that kills harmful bacteria.

2. Preventing bad breath

Bad breath or halitosis is caused by the buildup of bacteria in the mouth. Probiotics can reduce the amount of bacteria in the mouth and prevent bad breath.

In addition, they can also reduce the production of sulfur compounds, which are responsible for causing bad breath.

3. Reducing inflammation

Inflammatory conditions like gingivitis and periodontitis are caused by an immune response to the buildup of bacteria in the mouth. Probiotics have anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce inflammation and prevent these conditions from occurring.

4. Strengthening the immune system

Probiotics have been found to boost the immune system by increasing the production of antibodies and white blood cells. This helps to fight off harmful bacteria in the mouth and prevent dental diseases from occurring.

How to get probiotics for oral health

There are several ways to get probiotics for oral health:.

1. Probiotic supplements

Probiotic supplements are available in capsule, tablet, and powder form. When choosing a probiotic supplement, look for one that contains strains of bacteria that are known to improve oral health, such as Lactobacillus reuteri and Lactobacillus casei.

2. Probiotic-rich foods

Probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi are excellent sources of probiotics. When choosing yogurt, look for one that contains live cultures and no added sugar.

3. Probiotic mouthwash and toothpaste

Probiotic mouthwash and toothpaste are specifically designed to promote oral health.

They contain probiotics along with other ingredients like fluoride and xylitol that can help to strengthen teeth and prevent the buildup of harmful bacteria in the mouth.

The bottom line

Probiotics have been found to play a significant role in improving oral health. They can reduce harmful bacteria, prevent bad breath, reduce inflammation, and strengthen the immune system.

To get the benefits of probiotics for oral health, consider taking a probiotic supplement, consuming probiotic-rich foods, or using probiotic mouthwash and toothpaste.