Bad breath is a topic that affects many people and is often taboo. People often try to cover up bad breath with chewing gum, mouthwash or peppermints - but usually without long-term success. A promising solution could be the use of probiotics to bring the oral flora back into a healthy balance. In this article, we explain how probiotics can help against bad breath, why the oral flora plays a central role and how probiotics can contribute to fresh breath in the long term.
What is bad breath and how does it arise?
Bad breath, also known medically as halitosis, is caused in most cases by the production of sulfur-containing compounds in the mouth. These compounds, such as hydrogen sulfide, methyl mercaptan and dimethyl sulfide, have a characteristic unpleasant odor and are mainly caused by the decomposition of food particles and dead cells by certain bacteria in the oral cavity.
The most common causes of bad breath are:
- Imbalance of the oral flora : An unbalanced oral flora promotes the growth of bacteria that produce sulfur compounds and thus cause bad breath.
- Plaque and tongue coating : Food particles and bacteria on the tongue and teeth lead to the formation of plaque and tongue coating, where odor-producing bacteria accumulate.
- Poor oral hygiene : Lack of dental care allows bacteria to thrive, which can cause unpleasant odors.
- Dry mouth : Saliva plays an important role in removing food particles and bacteria. When the mouth is dry, for example due to a lack of fluids or certain medications, odor-producing bacteria can multiply more quickly.
A common imbalance in the oral flora is often the root of the problem. Therefore, there is increasing research into how this balance can be restored with the help of probiotics.
What are probiotics and how do they work in the mouth?
Probiotics are living microorganisms that, when administered in sufficient quantities, have positive effects on health. The best-known types of probiotics are lactobacilli and bifidobacteria, which are often found in yogurt or special food supplements. However, certain probiotic bacteria such as Streptococcus salivarius are particularly effective for the oral flora. These microorganisms colonize the mouth and help maintain a healthy microbial environment.
The positive effects of probiotics in the mouth include:
- Competition for nutrients and space : Probiotics compete with harmful bacteria for space and nutrients, inhibiting the growth of unwanted, odor-causing microbes.
- Production of antimicrobial substances : Probiotic bacteria produce substances called bacteriocins, which can inhibit or kill harmful bacteria. These substances create an environment in which pathogenic bacteria have a harder time multiplying.
- Regulating pH : A healthy pH in the mouth inhibits the growth of pathogenic bacteria that multiply faster in an acidic or alkaline environment.
- Strengthening the oral flora : The “good” bacteria promote a stable balance of the oral flora and contribute to the reduction of inflammation in the mouth.
Which probiotics specifically help with bad breath?
There are several specific probiotic strains that have been identified in studies as being particularly helpful in treating bad breath:
- Streptococcus salivarius K12 : This probiotic strain is probably the best known bacterial strain for fighting bad breath. Streptococcus salivarius K12 is a natural inhabitant of the oral cavity and has the ability to produce antimicrobial peptides that can fight harmful bacteria and thus reduce one cause of bad breath.
- Streptococcus salivarius M18 : This strain is similar to K12 , but is particularly effective in preventing plaque, bad breath and gingivitis. By preventing plaque formation, the risk of bad breath is also reduced because fewer bacteria can produce the sulfur compounds.
- Lactobacillus reuteri : This probiotic strain is known for its ability to inhibit the growth of pathogens in the mouth and reduce inflammation, thus promoting general oral health and preventing bad breath.
How to use probiotics to reduce bad breath
In order to benefit from the advantages of probiotics for bad breath, targeted use is important:
- Probiotic lozenges : Lozenges containing Streptococcus salivarius K12 or M18 are particularly effective because the bacteria are released directly into the oral cavity when sucked and can settle there. Taking them daily for several weeks can help to sustainably support the oral flora.
- Probiotic mouthwashes : There are now mouthwashes that contain probiotic bacteria and thus help to directly influence the oral flora and suppress the growth of pathogenic germs.
- Probiotic toothpastes : Probiotic toothpastes can also help fight bad breath by containing beneficial bacteria that have a positive effect on the oral flora. However, they are less effective as a standalone solution because the contact time is shorter.
It is important to use probiotics regularly, as they do not remain in the oral flora permanently. Daily use over a longer period of time ensures that the positive effects can develop optimally.
Additional tips for fresh breath
In addition to the use of probiotics, there are other important measures that help reduce bad breath and keep the oral flora in balance:
- Regular tongue cleaning : A tongue scraper removes deposits and bacteria on the tongue that are often responsible for bad breath.
- Drink plenty of fluids : Drinking promotes saliva production and helps flush bacteria and food particles from the mouth.
- Dental care routine : Brushing your teeth twice a day and cleaning between your teeth reduces the formation of plaque and thus the accumulation of odor-causing bacteria.
- Avoid smoking and alcohol : Both factors dry out the oral mucosa and promote the growth of bacteria that cause bad breath.
Conclusion
Probiotics offer a promising and scientifically based way to combat bad breath naturally. By promoting a healthy and balanced oral flora, they help to reduce the formation of sulfur compounds and ensure fresh breath in the long term. The probiotic strains Streptococcus salivarius K12 and M18 in particular have proven effective in studies and are a simple and sustainable solution to bad breath in the form of lozenges or mouthwashes. With the combination of good oral hygiene, a healthy diet and probiotic support, the oral flora can be kept in optimal balance - for fresh breath and a healthy mouth feeling.
