Alleviation of halitosis by use of probiotics and their protective mechanisms in the oral cavity
Halitosis, also known as bad breath, is a condition where an unpleasant odor caused by oral microbes comes out of a person's mouth during exhalation [8]. The use of probiotics as a potential therapeutic for halitosis is an emerging area of research. Probiotics are live microorganisms that confer a health benefit to the host when administered in adequate amounts [3].
Streptococcus salivarius is a non-pathogenic and predominant oral species that is one of the most important commensal probiotics and most frequently isolated from people without halitosis. S. salivarius K12 can produce two lantibiotics—salivaricin A2 (SalA2) and salivaricin B (SboB) [2].
Various studies on the alleviation of halitosis by the use of probiotics have reported satisfactory results [3]. The use of probiotics sourced from the indigenous oral microbiotas of healthy humans has potential application as adjuncts for the prevention and treatment of halitosis [5].
A study published in New Microbes New Infections in 2021 discusses the alleviation of halitosis by the use of probiotics and their protective mechanisms in the oral cavity. The study highlights the use of probiotics such as Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, and Streptococcus in reducing the production of volatile sulfur compounds that contribute to halitosis. The study also explores the mechanisms by which probiotics protect the oral cavity against halitosis, such as their ability to inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria, reduce inflammation, and promote the growth of beneficial bacteria [1].
Another study published in Bioscience and Medicine in 2021 discusses the potential of probiotics to maintain the homeostasis of bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract, which can suppress the proliferation of pathogenic bacteria and alleviate halitosis [9].
In summary, the use of probiotics as a potential therapeutic for halitosis is an emerging area of research. Various studies have reported satisfactory results, and probiotics sourced from the indigenous oral microbiotas of healthy humans have potential application as adjuncts for the prevention and treatment of halitosis. The mechanisms by which probiotics protect the oral cavity against halitosis include inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria, reducing inflammation, and promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria. Further research is needed to determine the efficacy and safety of probiotics in the management of halitosis.
