When it comes to maintaining good oral health, you might think that brushing and flossing are enough. But we here at Riven know that brushing and flossing aren’t enough to optimize your oral health. Recent studies have shown that probiotics play an essential role in promoting healthy teeth and gums. But you may be wondering, what exactly are these probiotics and how do they work?
Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that live in your body, and are crucial for maintaining its harmony. Similar to gut probiotics, oral probiotics encourage the growth of good bacteria in your mouth while inhibiting the growth of bad bacteria. These bacteria exist in a delicate ecosystem and when this balance is disrupted, harmful bacteria can grow and cause dental problems such as cavities, gum disease, and bad breath.
Dental probiotics, also known as oral probiotics, help restore and maintain this delicate balance in the mouth. They come in various forms such as probiotic mouthwash, probiotic gum, probiotic lozenges, and even toothpaste containing probiotics. With so many options available, are dental probiotics worth it?
The short answer is yes. Studies have shown that certain probiotic strains such as L. paracasei, L. reuteri, and Streptococcus A12 can help prevent cavities by inhibiting harmful bacteria from attaching to the teeth. They can also help treat gum disease, and reduce inflammation and plaque buildup.
Bad breath, also known as halitosis, can be caused by the growth of certain bacteria in the mouth. Research has also shown that oral probiotics are effective against bad breath and keep your mouth fresh and healthy. They can also help reduce the risk of some respiratory infections, particularly in children. Owing to their mechanical properties, they can fight off pathogens that attach to host cells in our body.
This doesn’t mean you go off and chuck all your dental products out the window and exclusively replace them with probiotics. Alone, probiotics are not a replacement for good oral hygiene practices such as brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups. Instead, they should be considered as a supplement to these practices, which help boost their effectiveness to improve our oral health.
When it comes to choosing oral probiotics, it's important to look for products that are specifically designed for dental health and contain probiotic strains that are effective for your oral health. Some of the best oral probiotics for gum disease, bad breath, and improving overall oral health include Streptococcus salivarius, Lactobacillus reuteri, and Bifidobacterium lactis. Some opt to incorporate dental probiotics in their routine by using a lozenge or chewable, or you can opt for the Riven Rinse which combines oral probiotics in a mouthwash. It’s a simple, easy, and an effective way to get the best of two product categories in a complete system.
But before trying dental probiotics, it's important to do your research and talk to your dentist. They can help you determine the best approach for your oral health. Also, check out these related blog posts for more information on oral health:
- How do you restore good bacteria in your mouth
- The Controversial Debate: Fluoride vs Hydroxyapatite for Oral Health
- Perfect Oral Care in Ten Seconds
