Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Lactobacillus lactis (usually Lactococcus lactis or various species of Lactobacillus) is a probiotic bacterium sometimes included in oral health supplements aimed at supporting gum health, including conditions like gingivitis. The rationale for its use is based on the general principle that certain probiotics can help modulate the oral microbiota, potentially reducing inflammation and pathogenic bacterial loads associated with gingivitis.

Scientific studies on Lactobacillus lactis specifically for gingivitis are limited. Most clinical research has focused on other probiotic strains such as Lactobacillus reuteri, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, and Streptococcus salivarius. These studies suggest a modest benefit in reducing gingival inflammation and bleeding, likely through mechanisms such as competition with pathogenic bacteria and modulation of the host immune response. For L. lactis itself, evidence is mostly extrapolated from its general probiotic properties and its proven safety in food products, rather than direct clinical trials in gingivitis patients.

Systematic reviews and meta-analyses of probiotics for gingivitis often do not specifically mention L. lactis, but suggest that probiotics as a category may have a small but significant benefit as an adjunct to traditional oral hygiene. Thus, while the use of L. lactis is scientifically plausible, the direct evidence for its efficacy in treating or preventing gingivitis is weak, warranting a low evidence rating. Further targeted research is needed to confirm its role.

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