Periodontitis, also known as periodontal disease, is a widespread and serious gum disease that not only affects the oral cavity but can also have an impact on overall health. Fortunately, there is emerging research and therapeutic approaches showing that certain bacteria naturally occurring in the mouth may play an important role in fighting periodontal disease. One such microorganism is Streptococcus salivarius M18, a probiotic bacterium that has been receiving increasing attention in recent years as a potential aid in the treatment and prevention of periodontal disease. In this blog post, we take a detailed look at periodontitis, how it develops, and how Streptococcus salivarius M18 may exert a protective effect on the gums.
What is periodontitis?
Periodontitis is an inflammatory disease of the gums that affects the deeper structures of the periodontium, including the tooth root and bone. If left untreated, periodontitis can cause serious damage to the teeth and even lead to tooth loss. It usually begins with gum inflammation (gingivitis), caused by the accumulation of plaque and bacteria on the teeth. If the inflammation is left untreated, it can spread to the deeper tissues and lead to periodontitis.
The main cause of periodontitis is the accumulation of plaque, a sticky layer of bacteria and food debris that constantly forms on the teeth. If plaque isn't removed regularly, it can harden into tartar, which worsens inflammation. Bacteria living in plaque and tartar cause inflammation and can permanently damage the tissue that supports the teeth.
The most common symptoms of periodontitis are:
- Redness, swelling, and bleeding of the gums, especially when brushing or flossing
- Bad breath and unpleasant taste in the mouth
- Receding gums and exposed tooth roots
- Loosening of teeth and tooth loss in severe cases
How Streptococcus salivarius M18 can help with periodontitis
In the past, the concept of probiotics was primarily associated with gut health. However, in recent years, it has been shown that the oral microbiome—the community of microbes in the mouth—can also be positively influenced by the use of probiotics. One such probiotic strain is Streptococcus salivarius M18.
Streptococcus salivarius M18 is a specific variant of the bacterium Streptococcus salivarius , which occurs naturally in the mouth and is considered one of the "good" microbes. It has several health-promoting properties that make it a promising candidate for supporting oral health, particularly in the prevention and treatment of periodontitis.
1. Reduction of pathogenic bacteria
A healthy oral microbiome consists of a balance between "good" and "bad" bacteria. When harmful bacteria such as Porphyromonas gingivalis , Tannerella forsythia , or Treponema denticola overgrow the oral flora, they can cause periodontitis. Streptococcus salivarius M18 has the ability to inhibit the growth of harmful microbes. It does this by competing with pathogenic bacteria for resources and limiting their growth by producing antimicrobial substances.
2. Promote gum health
Streptococcus salivarius M18 has anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe gums and relieve the symptoms of existing periodontal disease. By stimulating the immune system in the mouth in a healthy direction, this bacterium reduces the inflammatory responses that lead to swelling, redness, and pain. Thus, it can help support gum healing and slow down gum recession.
3. Strengthening the oral barrier
Streptococcus salivarius M18 also contributes to strengthening the natural protective barriers in the mouth. It promotes the formation of a protective biofilm layer on the tooth surface, preventing the penetration of harmful bacteria. This "good" biofilm layer can also help reduce the risk of plaque reaccumulation, a common trigger for periodontitis.
4. Reduction of bad breath
Bad breath (halitosis) is not only unpleasant, but also a common symptom of periodontal disease. Through its ability to inhibit the growth of odor-causing bacteria and balance the oral flora, Streptococcus salivarius M18 can help reduce bad breath and improve oral hygiene.
5. Supporting dental health through saliva production
Another benefit of Streptococcus salivarius M18 is its positive effect on saliva production. Saliva plays a key role in neutralizing acids, remineralizing teeth, and fighting bacteria. By promoting healthy saliva production, S. salivarius M18 helps reduce the risk of periodontitis and caries.
How is Streptococcus salivarius M18 used?
Streptococcus salivarius M18 is available in various forms that can be administered directly into the mouth. The most common dosage forms are:
- Lozenges : Probiotic lozenges containing Streptococcus salivarius M18 offer a simple way to apply the bacteria directly to the mouth. They can be used for daily oral care to promote the balance of the oral microbiome.
- Mouthwashes : There are also special mouthwashes containing S. salivarius M18 that can help stabilize the microbiome and prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.
It is important to note that the use of probiotic products containing Streptococcus salivarius M18 should be part of a good oral hygiene routine in combination with regular dental visits and a balanced diet.
Conclusion
Periodontitis is a serious disease that can damage the gums and periodontal ligaments. Supporting the oral microbiome through the use of Streptococcus salivarius M18 offers a promising approach for the prevention and treatment of this disease. Through its ability to inhibit the growth of pathogenic bacteria, exert anti-inflammatory effects, and strengthen the oral barrier, this probiotic bacterium can help promote gum health and prevent periodontal disease.
A balanced oral care regimen that integrates both traditional methods and modern probiotic approaches is key to long-term dental health and can help control periodontal disease.
