Evidence supporting the use of: Lactobacillus bulgaricus
For the health condition: Oral Surgery

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Synopsis

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

Lactobacillus bulgaricus is a probiotic bacterium traditionally used in the fermentation of yogurt and other dairy products. In the context of oral surgery, its use is based on emerging scientific evidence suggesting that probiotics may help support oral health by modulating the oral microbiome, reducing inflammation, and enhancing mucosal healing. Several studies on probiotics in general (and not always specifically L. bulgaricus) have demonstrated potential benefits in reducing postoperative complications such as infection, alveolar osteitis (dry socket), and delayed healing by inhibiting pathogenic bacteria and promoting beneficial microbial populations in the oral cavity.

However, direct scientific evidence specifically supporting the use of Lactobacillus bulgaricus for post-oral surgery care is limited. Most of the clinical trials and systematic reviews focus on mixed probiotic formulations or other strains such as Lactobacillus reuteri or Lactobacillus rhamnosus. The extrapolation of benefits from general probiotic studies to L. bulgaricus is plausible but not robustly validated. Some in vitro studies indicate that L. bulgaricus can inhibit the growth of oral pathogens, and a few small clinical trials suggest potential benefits in reducing oral inflammation and promoting healing, but the evidence remains preliminary.

In summary, while there is a growing scientific rationale and some early clinical evidence for the use of probiotics, including L. bulgaricus, in supporting oral surgery outcomes, the evidence is not strong or specific enough to warrant a high rating. More targeted clinical research is needed to confirm these benefits.

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