Evidence supporting the use of: Lactobacillus salivarius
For the health condition: Oral Surgery

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Lactobacillus salivarius has been investigated for its potential benefits in supporting oral health, particularly in the context of oral surgery. Scientific studies suggest that this probiotic strain may help reduce the risk of postoperative infections, modulate oral microbiota, and promote wound healing. Multiple clinical trials and reviews have reported that supplementation with L. salivarius, either as lozenges, mouth rinses, or tablets, can decrease the levels of pathogenic bacteria such as Streptococcus mutans and Porphyromonas gingivalis, both of which are implicated in postoperative complications such as alveolar osteitis (dry socket) and surgical site infections.

Moreover, some research has shown that probiotics like L. salivarius can reduce inflammation and improve healing by competing with pathogenic bacteria for adhesion sites, producing bacteriocins, and modulating the local immune response. A 2021 systematic review (see: Int J Oral Maxillofac Surg, 2021) concluded that adjunctive use of probiotics, including L. salivarius, after oral surgery may help reduce postoperative pain, swelling, and infection risk, although the evidence is moderate and further high-quality studies are needed.

Overall, while not universally adopted as a standard of care, the use of L. salivarius in oral surgery is increasingly supported by emerging scientific evidence, justifying its adjunctive use to promote postoperative recovery and oral health.

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