Lactobacillus pentosus is a probiotic bacterium that has been investigated for its potential benefits in oral health, particularly in the context of oral surgery recovery and the prevention of postoperative complications such as infections and inflammation. While the majority of probiotic research in dentistry centers around strains like Lactobacillus reuteri and Lactobacillus rhamnosus, there is a modest but growing body of evidence suggesting that L. pentosus may also play a beneficial role. Some in vitro and limited clinical studies have demonstrated that L. pentosus can inhibit the growth of oral pathogens such as Porphyromonas gingivalis and Streptococcus mutans, which are associated with periodontal disease and caries, respectively.

In the context of oral surgery, a few early-phase clinical trials and pilot studies have explored the adjunctive use of probiotics—including L. pentosus—for reducing postoperative infection rates, improving mucosal healing, and modulating local inflammatory responses. Results suggest possible reductions in pathogenic bacterial colonization and modest improvements in clinical parameters such as gingival index and wound healing time. However, these studies are typically small-scale, heterogeneous in design, and frequently combine L. pentosus with other probiotic strains or interventions, making it difficult to isolate its specific effects.

Overall, while there is some preliminary scientific support for the use of Lactobacillus pentosus in oral surgery recovery, the evidence is not robust or conclusive. Larger, well-controlled clinical trials are needed to firmly establish efficacy and inform clinical guidelines.