For many people halitosis (chronic bad breath) causes not only discomfort but also social insecurity. Although we usually resort to mint-flavoured gum or strong rinses, these only temporarily hide the problem.
A recent systematic analysis of research from the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences (LSMU) shows that the real solution lies in restoring the oral microflora with specific probiotics such as Lactobacillus reuteri.
What causes halitosis and why isn't cleansing alone enough?
Halitosis is caused by certain anaerobic Gram-negative bacteria that multiply on the plaque on the tongue, in the interdigital spaces or in the gum pockets. These micro-organisms break down proteins and secrete volatile sulphur compoundswith a particularly unpleasant smell.
Although mechanical plaque cleaning is necessary, it often only temporarily reduces bacteria. If dysbiosis (an imbalance of good and bad bacteria) prevails in the mouth, pathogens will quickly fill the vacant space again. This is where probiotics.
LSMU study: which good bacteria are most effective?
Based on Systematic analysis in the master thesis of LSMUnot all probiotics work in the same way. A review of 8 scientific studies identified specific bacterial species that have a statistically significant reduction in the amount of sulphur compounds in the mouth:
- Lactobacillus reuteri
- Lactobacillus salivarius
- Bifidobacterium lactis
- Streptococcus thermophilus
Meanwhile, popular types such as Streptococcus salivarius via Lactobacillus brevis did not show the expected efficacy in treating halitosis in this study.
Why is probiotic gum or liquid better than tablets?
One of the most interesting findings of the study was the form of probiotic consumption. The results showed that:
- Chewing gum with probiotics: Both publications that studied this form showed a marked reduction in halitosis. Chewing improves the distribution of the good bacteria in the oral cavity and prolonged contact with the mucosa.
- Rinsing fluid and applications: It is also effective, especially when probiotics are used in combination with tongue cleaning.
- Tablets: Although convenient, only one of the four publications studied achieved a positive result.
| Form of probiotics | Efficiency in the study |
| Chewing gum | High |
| Rinsing liquid | High (including hygiene) |
| Sucking tablets | Low/High |
Practical tips: how to beat bad breath?
If you want a long-lasting result, the findings of the LSMU study suggest a combined approach:
- Mechanical hygiene: Brush not only your teeth, but also your tongue every day (use a special scraper).
- Targeted probiotics: Look for oral hygiene products (gums or gels) that contain Lactobacillus reuteri or Lactobacillus salivarius.
- Maintaining homeostasis: Avoid aggressive alcohol rinses, which indiscriminately kill all oral bacteria, thus promoting dysbiosis.
Conclusion
Science confirms that the fight against bad breath is moving to the microbiological level. Instead of just masking the problem, today we can turn to good bacteria that naturally restore oral health.
Source: Probiotic use and efficacy in the treatment of halitosis: a systematic review (LSMU)