The potential role of probiotics in periodontal health

Introduction: Probiotics represent an area in which bacterial interaction with the hosts is being put to practical and therapeutic use. The mechanism of action of probiotics is related to its ability to compete with pathogenic microorganisms for adhesion sites, to antagonize these pathogens or to modulate the host’s immune response. Therefore, changing the actual composition of plaque from an inflammatory cytokine-rich environment to a more benign environment dominated by neutral or even helpful organisms can contribute to overall systemic health. Objective: This non systematic review summarizes the currently available data on the potential benefits of probiotics for periodontal health. Literature review: Current and relevant references were selected in order to summarize the studies conducted so far on probiotics in preventing and treating oral infections. Conclusion: Probiotics as a treatment modality deserves to be explored further with long term studies with specific focus on its role in prevention.