When most people hear the word “probiotics,” they think of gut health – yogurt, kombucha, or supplements that help with digestion. But did you know that probiotics may also play a role in your oral health, particularly in preventing and managing gum disease? Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is a common condition that affects the tissues and bones supporting your teeth. Left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss, chronic bad breath, and even increase the risk for systemic conditions like heart disease and diabetes. Probiotics might offer a natural and effective way to support healthy gums.
What Are Probiotics?
Probiotics are live, beneficial bacteria that help maintain a healthy balance of microorganisms in your body. Just like they support the balance of bacteria in your digestive system, they can also influence the bacterial environment in your mouth. This is important because your mouth is home to hundreds of different types of bacteria – some helpful, and some harmful.
In cases of gum disease, harmful bacteria overgrow and cause inflammation of the gums (gingivitis) or deeper infection of the bone and ligaments around the teeth (periodontitis). Probiotics can help restore a healthier balance.
How Probiotics Fight Gum Disease
Research has shown that probiotics can help prevent and manage gum disease in a few key ways:
- Reducing inflammation: Some probiotic strains produce substances that help calm inflammation in the gum tissue. This can reduce swelling, redness, and bleeding – early signs of gum disease.
- Crowding out harmful bacteria: By introducing good bacteria into the mouth, probiotics can compete with and inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria that are major contributors to gum disease.
- Improving immune response: Probiotics may help enhance your body’s immune response, allowing it to better fight off infections and keep your gums healthy.
- Supporting healing: Certain strains may also promote faster healing after dental treatments like deep cleanings or scaling and root planing.
Using Probiotics Safely
While probiotics are generally safe for most people, it’s always a good idea to check with your dentist or physician before adding them to your routine, especially if you have a compromised immune system or other health conditions. Also, remember that probiotics should supplement, not replace, good oral hygiene practices like brushing twice daily, flossing, and getting regular dental checkups.
Probiotics offer a promising and natural way to support gum health and reduce the risk of gum disease. By helping restore balance to the oral microbiome, they can serve as an effective ally in your dental care routine. If you’re looking for an extra boost to protect your smile, talk to your dentist about incorporating oral probiotics into your daily regimen.
About the Practice
Are you in a fight against gum disease? Let the knowledgeable team of experts at Elwood Avenue Dental help you. Our state-of-the-art dental facility is rich with amenities, and we use laser periodontal therapy for more comfortable care. Nervous to see the dentist? We offer several kinds of sedation dentistry to make your experience a stress-free one. Call us today to schedule your appointment at (918) 299-2298 or visit our website.