ROLE OF PROBIOTICS IN PERIODONTICS

Probiotics are living organisms which, if administered in sufficient amounts, provide a health benefit to the host. For several decades now, bacteria called probiotics have been added to some foods because of their beneficial effects for human health. With the emergence of multi-resistance strains, antibiotic resistance has become a booming problem that has led scientists to develop novel means for infectious diseases, also there has been a major shift in treatment options from non-specific to specific approach.An increased interest in alternative, progressive, preventive and therapeutic strategies in dentistry has arisen with an added minimal side effects. Considering the beneficial effects of probiotics, could serve as a useful adjunct or alternative to periodontal treatment. Therefore proposing a treatment involving the non-surgical treatment plus probiotic intake may result in better regulation of bacterial plaque and thus contribute to successful periodontal treatment.At present time, the use of probiotics in the management of periodontal disease is still young and rapidly developing field.Hence, this book has focused on the role of probiotics in oral health.