Taking probiotics for a boost to your health has become popular over the last few years, but did you know that there are certain probiotics for your oral health specifically. They can help prevent cavities and gum disease and help keep your breath feeling fresh.
The bad bacteria in your mouth has also been linked to diseases like cancer, heart disease and even Alzheimer’s disease. Oral probiotics can help reduce the number of bad bacteria in your mouth.
The main difference between oral probiotics and other types of probiotics is that most of them focus on gut bacteria. Oral probiotics focus on different bacteria that are important to the oral microbiome. They usually come in the form of lozenges or chewable tablets.
Ultimately if your oral microbiome is healthy enough, there will be enough good bacteria to keep any harmful bacteria in check.
Here are 5 benefits of oral probiotics:
1. Reduces Plaque
Plaque buildup on your teeth is the most common cause of cavities and something brushing and flossing isn’t enough to get rid of all of it. An oral probiotic with Steptococcus A12 in it though can help reduce the plaque buildup even further.
2. Reduces Gingivitis
Gingivitis the precursor to gum disease is another major concern when it comes to your oral health. The probiotic Lactobacillus reuteri though can help destroy the microbes that cause gingivitis bringing a healthier balance to your oral microbiome.
Oral probiotics also help relieve the inflammation that comes with gum disease. This 2007 study suggests that taking supplements with the bacteria Lactobacillus brevis can help decrease inflammation and another study found that drinking probiotic milk on a daily basis can help with inflammation caused by gum disease.
3. Prevents Oral Thrush
Oral thrush a condition when you find white spots on your tongue. This is due to the overgrowth of a fungi called Candida that can be prevented by oral probiotics.
4. Freshens Your Breath
Some studies have found that oral probiotics are more effective at eliminating bad breath than antibacterial mouthwash which tends to kill off the good bacteria as well as the bad which is not what you want.
5. May Protect You from Disease
Research has shown that what goes on in your oral microbiome can have an effect on the rest of your body too and that the risk of life-threatening illnesses like cancer and heart disease. And Alzheimer’s disease has been linked to gum disease. This means keeping a healthy oral microbiome may help protect you from disease.
There is a caveat in all of this though. While studies have shown the benefits of oral probiotics, it is important to remember that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration hasn’t approved them for medical use yet.
You should always talk to your doctor first before starting to take any supplements. Oral probiotics should never be taken by anyone whose immune systems are weakened like people living with HIV. Also, children, older people and pregnant women should not take high levels of probiotics.
If you do take oral probiotics, be sure to follow the dosage instructions and never take more than what is recommended in 24 hours.
There are also some foods that are rich sources of probiotics like yogurt, kefir, aged cheeses, miso and sauerkraut.
While taking oral probiotics have their benefits, don’t forget that the best way to maintain your oral health is to brush and floss your teeth carefully every day and visit your dentist for regular checkups. If you have teeth alignment issues and a crowded mouth, this too can make it difficult to maintain a healthy mouth. Orthodontic treatment is also important for your health.
Today there are so many options now besides the traditional metal braces. You can choose ceramic braces, lingual braces, Invisalign and accelerated orthodontics. Invisalign treatment involves wearing clear plastic aligners that you remove to eat and drink, and brush and floss your teeth. Then there are lingual braces that are attached to the backs of your teeth in order to make them less visible as well as tooth-colored ceramic braces which are also less noticeable than metal braces.
Each treatment has its own pros and cons that you should evaluate carefully, but whatever you decide, don’t ignore your oral health. Your health is important and if you don’t take care of it now, you will find yourself having more serious issues down the line.
Want to learn more about how orthodontic treatment as well as the benefits of oral probiotics? Contact Orthodontics Limited today. We are an Invisalign Diamond + provider, the only orthodontic practice in Philadelphia with this designation, and we are board certified by the American Board of Orthodontics.
With convenient locations in Hatboro, Northeast Philadelphia and Center City Philadelphia, getting to your orthodontic appointments will be stress-free and won’t take up most of your day. Don’t wait any longer to see if orthodontic care can help you get a healthier smile.
