What Are Dental (Oral) Probiotics and Do You Really Need Them?
Today, let’s talk about something that’s getting a lot of buzz in the dental world lately: dental probiotics , also known as oral probiotics . You’ve probably heard of probiotics for your gut, but this is something a little different. Let’s dive in. What Are Dental Probiotics? Dental probiotics are not the same as gut probiotics. Most of us are familiar with gut probiotics—the kind you take when you're on antibiotics or found in yogurt to support digestive health. But oral probiotics are specifically designed for your mouth . These supplements target the microbiome of your mouth , helping to promote healthy bacteria and reduce harmful ones. They’ve been associated with potential benefits like: Fresher breath Reduced gingivitis and gum inflammation Decreased risk of cavities and tooth decay Lower incidence of tonsillitis and oral thrush And in some cases, even reduced oral cancer risk When the natural balance of bacteria in your mouth is disturbed, it can lea...