Swollen gums are a common symptom of gum disease, a serious medical problem that afflicts approximately 80 percent of United States adults, according to the American Dental Hygienist Association. In addition to causing mouth pain and premature tooth loss, gum disease can significantly increase your risk of cancer of the mouth and diabetes. The probiotic acidopholus may help combat swollen gums and gum disease.
Acidophilus
Acidophilus, or Lactobacillus acidophilus, is a species of probiotic. Probiotics are helpful bacteria that live in your digestive tract. Although commonly taken in supplement form, Lactobacillus acidophilus can also be obtained naturally in the diet by consuming fermented dairy products, including kefir and low-fat yogurt. According to MayoClinic.com, acidophilus is used as a treatment for vaginal infections and diarrhea.
Gum Disease
According to the American Dental Association, gum disease is a result of a bacterial infection. When the gums become weak -- either through certain nutrient deficiencies or tobacco use -- they become more susceptible to infection. The first stage of gum disease -- gingivitis -- is characterized by swollen gums. If gum disease progresses, it can become periodontal disease, a more serious form of gum disease.
Connection
A review paper published in the August 2011 "Journal of Indian Society of Periodontology" notes that probiotics reduce the risk of gum disease by competing with harmful strains of bacteria in the mouth, such as Streptococcus mutans. Additionally, probiotics boost overall immunity, making it more difficult for bacteria to infect your gums. A test-tube study published in the September 2010 issue of "Acta Odontologica Scandinavica" found that acidophilus bacteria released natural antibiotics that inhibited the growth of gum disease-causing bacteria in the mouth.
Warnings
While promising, no human studies confirm that acidophilus is beneficial against swollen gums or gum disease. The probiotic acidophilus is generally safe and well-tolerated, MayoClinic.com reports. However, side effects such as infection and gastrointestinal upset may occur. Before taking acidophilus supplements or consuming acidophilus-rich foods talk to your doctor.
References
- American Dental Association: Disease, Gum
- American Dental Hygienists Association: Oral Health-Total Health: Know the Connection
- MayoClinic.com: Acidophilus (Lactobacillus acidophilus)
- "Journal of Indian Society of Periodontology"; Probiotics in periodontal health and disease; A Chatterjee et al.; August 2011
- " Acta Odontologica Scandinavica"; Competition Between Yogurt Probiotics and Periodontal Pathogens In Vitro; Y Zhu et al.; September 2010
Member Comments