Probiotic treatments may benefit individuals with gingivitis

Gingivitis is a growing problem among many Americans. In its early stages, the condition causes bad breath and discomfort. If left untreated, it can progress, increasing the risk of tooth loss as well as bone and joint damage.

However, a new study has found that dental probiotics may be an effective way to prevent gingivitis from developing. The results could give new hope to many people who have had a difficult time improving their oral health.

A team of researchers from the University of Health Sciences in India tested the effects of probiotics treatments in 30 patients who had been diagnosed with chronic gingivitis. They found that lozenges containing the beneficial microbes decreased oral bacteria 90 percent more than traditional treatments for the condition.

"Probiotics can be recommended during nonsurgical therapy and the maintenance phase of periodontal treatment," the researchers wrote in their report, which was published in the Journal of Microbiology. "Considering the beneficial effects of probiotics, this therapy could serve as a useful adjunct or alternative to periodontal treatment [standard treatments] might be contraindicated."