From stabilising pH levels to reducing harmful bacteria, probiotics are gaining recognition as an easy way to strengthen teeth and gums. Coupled with nutrient-rich foods and healthy habits, they create the perfect recipe for a resilient smile.
In part two of our interview series, Jakob, PhD Medical Sciences and BioGaia’s research expert in oral health dives into how probiotics work, the science behind them, and the lifestyle choices that can make all the difference.
Can incorporating probiotics into a daily routine improve long-term gum and teeth health?
“Yes, incorporating probiotics into your daily routine can significantly enhance the long-term health of your gums and teeth. Probiotics play a dual role in potentially preventing cavities," Jakob notes. "They stabilise the pH levels in the mouth, which helps reduce acidity—a major factor in enamel erosion—and they also inhibit the growth of bacteria that cause tooth decay."
“This dual action of reducing acidity in the oral environment and suppressing harmful bacterial activity, contributes to a lower risk of cavities and supports overall oral health.”
What scientific evidence supports the use of probiotics for oral health maintenance?
“Probiotics are increasingly recognised as a complementary treatment for a variety of oral health conditions, supported by a growing body of scientific evidence. Dentists are incorporating probiotics into their practices as new research highlights their benefits, with numerous clinical studies and meta-analyses demonstrating their efficacy,” comments Jakob.
“Recent publications include a network meta-analysis, an advanced type of meta-analysis, which evaluated probiotics' effects on oral health. This analysis revealed that while many probiotics show short-term benefits in managing dental issues, Limosilactobacillus reuteri stands out as the only probiotic with evidence of long-term efficacy.”
“Additionally, the European Federation of Periodontology (EFP) now recommends L. reuteri Prodentis as a treatment option, further emphasising its clinical utility.”
What lifestyle factors can help keep teeth and gums healthy and strong?
While we know that sugary foods can cause cavities, Jakob highlights that your diet can also influence the health of your gums.
“New research indicates that what you eat can directly affect how your gums respond to plaque,” Jakob explains. For example, diets high in processed carbohydrates may worsen gum inflammation, while whole foods like leafy greens, nuts, and fish rich in omega-3s have an anti-inflammatory effect. “These findings challenge the old belief that plaque is the sole cause of gum inflammation,” Jakob explains. “What we’re learning now is that diet plays a crucial role in how gums react to plaque.
The new studies suggest that adding more fibre, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential nutrients to your meals helps protect your gums and reduces inflammation, promoting a healthier, stronger smile.
By combining daily oral hygiene practices with the power of probiotics and a nutrient-rich, whole foods diet, you can take a proactive approach to your oral health.
Your journey to healthier teeth and gums starts with simple adjustments—and the results can last a lifetime.
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Sources
Herrera D et al. Prevention and treatment of peri-implant diseas- es—The EFP S3 level clinical practice guideline. J Clin Periodontol. 2023;50(S26):4-76. doi:10.1111/jcpe.13823.
Mendonça CD de, Mata ADSP da, Azevedo LFR, Marques JF, Silveira JML, Marques DN da S. Probiotics in the non-surgical treatment of periodontitis: a systematic review and network meta-analysis. BMC Oral Heal. 2024;24(1):1224. doi:10.1186/s12903-024-05027.
Woelber JP, Bartha V, Baumgartner S, Tennert C, Schlagenhauf U, Ratka-Krüger P, Vach K. Is Diet a Determining Factor in the Induction of Gingival Inflammation by Dental Plaque? A Secondary Analysis of Clinical Studies. Nutrients. 2024;16(7):923. doi: 10.3390/nu16070923.
