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VOLUME 1 , ISSUE 1 ( January-June, 2024 ) > List of Articles

ORIGINAL RESEARCH

Role of Probiotics in Modulating Oral Microbiota and Preventing Dental Caries in Children

Sachin K Jadhav, Neha Shukla

Keywords : Children, Dental caries, Oral microbiota, Prevention, Probiotics

Citation Information : Jadhav SK, Shukla N. Role of Probiotics in Modulating Oral Microbiota and Preventing Dental Caries in Children. J Dent bio allied Health Sci 2024; 1 (1):9-11.

DOI: 10.5005/jdbahs-11017-0005

License: CC BY-NC 4.0

Published Online: 19-06-2024

Copyright Statement:  Copyright © 2024; The Author(s).


Abstract

Background: Dental caries remain a prevalent childhood oral health issue globally, necessitating effective preventive measures. Probiotics have emerged as a promising avenue for modulating oral microbiota and preventing dental caries. This study investigates the role of probiotics in this context. Materials and methods: One hundred kids, ranging in age from six to twelve, participated in the study. Half of the kids were assigned to take a probiotic supplement every day, while the other half received a placebo. The experiment was a randomized controlled trial. Prior to and during the 6-month intervention, the composition of the oral microbiota was examined using high-throughput sequencing. Dental caries incidence and severity were assessed clinically. Results: Following the intervention, the probiotic group demonstrated a significant increase in beneficial bacterial strains such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium compared with the control group (p < 0.05). Moreover, the probiotic group exhibited a 30% reduction in dental caries incidence and a 20% decrease in caries severity compared with the control group. Conclusion: Probiotic supplementation effectively modulates oral microbiota composition, favoring a healthier balance and significantly reducing the incidence and severity of dental caries in children. Incorporating probiotics into oral health strategies may offer a novel approach for preventing dental caries and promoting oral health in pediatric populations.


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