There are hundreds of bacteria that live in your mouth. While that thought might seem a little worrying as some are bad and cause cavities, not every one of them is harmful. There are certain good ones, like probiotics, that may actually be great at helping you prevent gum disease! Here’s what you need to know from recent studies so you can keep your smile the best it can be.
What Exactly Are Probiotics?
You might’ve heard of probiotics before, but likely with your gut health. In short, they are live bacteria and yeast that have beneficial effects on your body. They can boost your immune system, helping with your response to infections. These microorganisms can also fight back against harmful germs. Better yet, research has come out showing they may have a link to lowering your chances of gum disease.
So, How Are Probiotics Good for My Grin?
Your mouth has a mixture of both good and bad bacteria. It’s most healthy when there is a fine balance between them. When the harmful ones start to build up and take the majority, then you are at a higher risk of oral health problems, like gum disease. This condition is an infection in the soft tissues of your mouth, causing inflammation, noticeable redness, and bleeding when brushing or flossing in the early stages.
This imbalance can happen if you don’t stick with your dental hygiene routine or have dry mouth. However, by taking probiotics, you can reintroduce good bacteria to your mouth. Getting the population level again can help stop the growth of bad strains that can attack your teeth and gums.
In fact, there was a study that tested this! Researchers gave one group a probiotic lozenge (a medicated tablet, such as a cough drop) and another placebos. Both had to take them for eight weeks, and by the end, the ones who had probiotics did have better gum health, along with less plaque and inflammation.
What Can I Do to Get More Probiotics?
Now you may be thinking about ways you can get more probiotics to keep your oral health in great shape. It can be as easy as eating certain foods, like:
- Cottage cheese
- Yogurt
- Pickles
- Kimchi
- Kombucha
- Sauerkraut
Many more items have them, such as other fermented options. If you have trouble finding something for your meals, then a dietary supplement is a great choice. By seeing what fits into your lifestyle without a hassle, you can support your gut and gums; that way, you keep your smile strong and problem-free.
About the Author
Dr. Vrajesh Shah earned his dental degree from the New York University College of Dentistry and later specialized in prosthodontics at the same institution! He now has over 20 years of experience that he uses to give the Edison community the expert care they deserve, especially when treating gum disease. By using state-of-the-art technology, you enjoy a more comfortable service that helps your oral health in the long run. If your gums are noticeably red or swollen, schedule an appointment or call Dr. Shah’s office at (732) 943-1709.