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A recent meta-analysis published in the International Dental Journal examined the effects of probiotics on dental caries and overall oral health in children and adolescents. The study analyzed data from 19 randomized controlled trials (RCTs), encompassing 2,622 participants with follow-up periods ranging from 0.2 to 108 months.
Findings of the Study
The primary outcomes assessed included the number of carious teeth, Streptococcus mutans count, and Lactobacillus count. Secondary outcomes involved bacterial plaque index, gingival index, salivary pH, and bleeding index.
The study found that probiotics did not significantly reduce dental caries or impact Lactobacillus levels. However, a moderate reduction in S. mutans counts was observed. S. mutans is a key bacteria associated with tooth decay, indicating that probiotics may play a role in controlling its presence.
Despite these findings, probiotics had no notable effect on bacterial plaque index, gingival index, or salivary pH, further emphasizing that their role in improving overall oral health remains limited.
Implications and Future Research
While the reduction in S. mutans is a promising finding, the study concludes that probiotics are not effective in significantly lowering other oral health outcomes related to dental caries. Researchers emphasize the need for further studies to confirm these results and explore potential long-term benefits.
Disclaimer
This article summarizes research findings for informational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice. Individuals should consult a healthcare professional or dentist for personalized recommendations regarding oral health and probiotic use.
Source: International Dental Journal
