Probiotics and Dental Caries: A Review

Since 150 years, surgical approach has predominated the management of dental caries. Ever-growing advances in various sciences, has provided increasing evidence to support the use of bacteriotherapy in management of various oro-dental diseases. Bacteria known as probiotics, proven to be beneficial for human health, have recently been the focus of attention for various health researchers in the oral health perspective. Probiotics are commonly consumed as part of fermented foods with specially added active live cultures; such as in yogurt or as dietary supplements. The number of products containing probiotics entering the market usually contains streptococci, lactobacilli or Bifidobacteria. The applications of probiotic strategies may, in near future pave an end to many infections occurring in oral cavity. This paper discusses the potential mechanisms of probiotic bacteria in the oral cavity and summarizes observed effects of probiotics with respect to oral health and potential risks associated with them.