Synopsis

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

Lactobacillus species have been increasingly studied as a probiotic approach to support oral health, including the management of gingivitis. Gingivitis is characterized by inflammation of the gums, largely due to microbial plaque accumulation. Several clinical studies and reviews have evaluated the efficacy of Lactobacillus-containing probiotics (often L. reuteri, L. rhamnosus, or unspecified Lactobacillus blends) in reducing gingival inflammation and bleeding. The proposed mechanism is that these probiotics can modulate the oral microbiota, inhibit the growth of pathogenic bacteria, and exert anti-inflammatory effects on the gingival tissues.

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have shown that probiotic supplementation, either in lozenge, yogurt, or tablet form, can result in statistically significant reductions in gingival index and bleeding on probing compared to placebo. The effects, while positive, are generally modest and appear to be adjunctive to standard mechanical plaque control, not replacements.

Systematic reviews (e.g., Gruner et al., 2016, "Probiotics for managing caries and periodontitis," and Invernici et al., 2018, "Clinical and microbiological effects of probiotics in periodontal diseases") conclude that there is moderate-quality evidence to support the short-term use of Lactobacillus probiotics as an adjunct in gingivitis management. However, heterogeneity in strains, dosages, and study durations limits the strength of recommendations. Thus, while not a traditional remedy, the use of Lactobacillus for gingivitis is supported by a growing—though not definitive—scientific evidence base.

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