Probiotics: Contributions to Oral and Dental Health

Probiotics have been extensively researched for their beneficial health promoting effects. Previously, the mainstream of research was limited to the gastrointestinal flora, but in the past few years it has been more focused towards the oral and dental health perspectives. Few randomized controlled trials have been conducted in this area, though the investigations on probiotics versus oral and dental health are still in their cradle. The aim of this review is to assess the potential mechanisms of probiotic bacteria in the oral cavity and summarize observed effects of probiotics with respect to oral and dental health. The review focuses on probiotic lactobacilli and bifidobacteria, genera that are most widely used in various probiotic supplements. It also discusses the potential of probiotic strains in oral cavity colonization, interspecies interactions, and possible effects on host immunomodulation.