Good oral hygiene is essential to maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash are all important steps in preventing dental problems such as cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. 

But did you know that adding oral probiotics to your dental routine can also be beneficial?

What are Oral Probiotics?

Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are good for your health, especially your digestive system. However, probiotics are not limited to your gut. Oral probiotics promote oral health by introducing beneficial bacteria to your mouth.

The bacteria in your mouth can either be good or bad. The good bacteria help to maintain a healthy balance in your mouth, while the bad bacteria can cause problems such as plaque, gingivitis, and bad breath. Probiotics introduce good bacteria to your mouth, which can help crowd out the bad bacteria and promote a healthier balance. It has been shown to have several healing properties for the mouth, including:

1. Reducing Plaque: Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth and can lead to cavities and gum disease. Studies have shown that certain strains such as Streptococcus salivarius, can help reduce plaque buildup and improve oral health.
2. Preventing Gingivitis: Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease that causes inflammation and bleeding of the gums. Research has shown that using probiotics can help to avert and treat gingivitis by reducing the number of harmful bacteria in the mouth.
3. Fighting Bad Breath: Bad breath, also known as halitosis, can be caused by a buildup of bacteria in the mouth. Probiotics can help to fight bad breath by introducing beneficial bacteria that can help to neutralise the odour-causing bacteria in the mouth.

Choosing the Right Probiotics

When choosing, it is crucial to look for a product that contains strains of bacteria that have been specifically shown to be beneficial for oral health.

One of the most well-studied strains of oral probiotics is streptococcus salivarius K12. This strain has been shown to reduce the incidence of strep throat and ear infections in children and the formation of plaque and gingivitis in adults. Supplements containing Streptococcus salivarius K12 are available over the counter and online. They promote oral health, support immune function, and reduce the incidence of infections such as strep throat and ear infections.

Choosing a probiotic formulated to survive the mouth’s harsh environment is also essential. Look for products that use a protective delivery system, such as a lozenge or chewable tablet, to ensure the beneficial bacteria reach their intended destination.

Incorporating Probiotics into Your Dental Routine

Adding probiotics to your dental routine is easy. Choose a high-quality product and use it as directed. Some products may recommend taking the probiotic on an empty stomach, while others may suggest taking it with food. Be sure to read the instructions carefully and follow them closely.

In addition, it is essential to maintain good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing twice daily, flossing daily, and using mouthwash. Combining these habits with probiotics can promote a healthier balance of bacteria in your mouth and prevent dental problems such as plaque, gingivitis, and bad breath.

Conclusion

Maintaining good oral health is important for overall health and well-being. While traditional dental hygiene practices such as brushing and flossing are essential, incorporating probiotics into your routine can provide additional benefits.