Journal of Oral Sign

Probiotics are living microorganisms added to food which beneficially affect the host by improving microbialbalance. Several health related affects are associated with their intake. “Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food,” the age-old quote fry Hippocrates, is certainly proven right with the use of these novel food additives. Probiotics modify the gut flora by promoting growth of healthy organisms. Thus, they help in the alleviation of antibiotic induced side effects and diarrhoea. They have also been successfully used in diseases affecting pancreas, liver and bowel. Their beneficial effect in pregnancy have been documentedin some studies and their role in prevention of allergic conditions and HIV infection is under study. The concept of microbial ecological change as a mechanism for preventing dental disease is well understood by the beneficial effects of probiotics on oral flora and prevention of many oral infections. Research is being conducted in the field of oral diseases regarding benefits of probiotic administration and prevention of oral diseases. Probiotics therapy in children may help in reduction of dental caries. Also probiotic therapy may help in diseases such as candidiasis, periodontal diseases, and halitosis. Hence, it is pertinent to carry out research in the field of probiotics so that their widespread use can be implemented for the betterment of general and oral health. This article, which was prepared after thorough literature search based on pubmed and medline indexed journals, emphasizes the importance of this novel concept of probiotics.