Role of prebiotics and probiotics in oral health
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to focus on the utilisation of pre- and probiotics for oral care and the state of knowledge at this time.
Design/methodology/approach
Pre- and probiotics describe beneficial carbohydrates and microbiota, respectively, for optimal gut health. Carbohydrates provide energy selectively for the gut-friendly bacteria. The use of both carbohydrates and bacteria is, however, being expanded into other areas of the body – including the skin, vagina and oral cavity – for health-related applications.
Findings
There is increased interest in both pre- and probiotics for oral care products. The importance of oral microflora and their selective substrates is discussed against a background of contemporary oral care approaches. The issues and benefits are discussed in this review.
Originality/value
It is clear that consumption of prebiotics and probiotics may play a role as potential prophylactic or therapeutic agents for reducing the presence of organisms in the mouth associated with tooth decay. To confirm a beneficial effect of pre- and probiotics further in vivo studies involving healthy human volunteers should be considered.
Keywords
Citation
Tester, R.F. and Al-Ghazzewi, F.H. (2018), "Role of prebiotics and probiotics in oral health", Nutrition & Food Science, Vol. 48 No. 1, pp. 16-29. https://doi.org/10.1108/NFS-03-2017-0056
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2018, Emerald Publishing Limited