PROBIOTICS FOR THE TREATMENT OF GUM DISEASE?

A double-blind, placebo-controlled study conducted on patients with chronic gum disease has found that probiotic use can increase the effectiveness of treatment. In this study, patients who increased their intake of lactobacillus reuteri, a bacteria found naturally in the human gut, saw a 53 percent increase in the efficacy of gum disease treatment.

Lactobacillus reuteri has long been known kill Streptococcus mutans, a bacterium responsible for tooth decay. However, it’s usefulness in the treating of gingivitis and periodontitis is only now being fully realized.

As with most probiotics, lactobacillus reuteri can be found in a number of foods, though cultured dairy products remain the most reliable source. Strains of this bacterium can also be found in pill form alone or in combination with other probiotics.

Barrie dentist Dr. Adam Chapnick recommends all available resources be used when treating and preventing gum disease. Adding lactobacillus reuteri to your diet is a simple way to complement your dental hygiene routine of brushing, flossing, and biannual visits. Dr. Chapnick would be happy to discuss this with you in greater detail during your next appointment.

To schedule your next appointment at our Chapnick Dental Office, please contact Dr. Adam Chapnick today. Dr. Chapnick serves Barrie and surrounding areas of Ontario.