Probiotics in Caries Prevention

J Contemp Dent Pract. 2018 Feb 1;19(2):123-124. doi: 10.5005/jp-journals-10024-2224.

Abstract

Past few decades have seen a significant increase in the prevalence of dental caries at a global scale. To reduce the pervasiveness of cariogenic microflora, various efforts have been undertaken. However, completely eradicating caries-associated microorganisms has been futile.1 Endogenous bacteria, such as Lactobacillus species, Streptococcus mutans, and Streptococcus sobrinus persisting in biofilms ferment carbohydrate and produce weak organic acids as by-products. This, in turn, results in a drop in the local pH well below the critical level, resulting in demineralization of tooth.2.

Publication types

  • Editorial

MeSH terms

  • Biofilms
  • Dental Caries / microbiology*
  • Dental Caries / prevention & control*
  • Humans
  • Lactobacillus / physiology
  • Probiotics / therapeutic use*
  • Streptococcus mutans / drug effects
  • Streptococcus sobrinus / drug effects