The potential role of probiotics in periodontal health

Resumo

Probiotics represent an area in which bacterial interaction
with the hosts is being put to practical and therapeutic use. The
mechanism of action of probiotics is related to its ability to compete
with pathogenic microorganisms for adhesion sites, to antagonize these
pathogens or to modulate the host’s immune response. Therefore,
changing the actual composition of plaque from an inflammatory
cytokine-rich environment to a more benign environment dominated
by neutral or even helpful organisms can contribute to overall systemic
health. Objective: This non systematic review summarizes the currently
available data on the potential benefits of probiotics for periodontal
health. Literature review: Current and relevant references were selected
in order to summarize the studies conducted so far on probiotics in
preventing and treating oral infections. Conclusion: Probiotics as a
treatment modality deserves to be explored further with long term
studies with specific focus on its role in prevention.