Background: Geriatric patients face distinct oral health challenges due to age-related changes such as hyposalivation, altered oral microbiota, and increased susceptibility to conditions like oral candidiasis, caries, and periodontitis. Traditional dental interventions may be limited by systemic considerations and patient compliance, prompting exploration of probiotics as a supportive or alternative strategy. Objective: This narrative review explores the mechanisms, evidence, safety, and clinical potential of probiotics in improving oral health among older adults. Methods: Data were synthesized from randomized controlled trials, systematic reviews, and narrative analyses focusing on probiotics’ impact on oral health, particularly in elderly populations. Findings: Probiotics exhibit diverse mechanisms of action including antimicrobial effects, competitive exclusion, immune modulation, and biofilm disruption. Clinical studies show probiotics can reduce oral Candida counts, improve salivary function, and decrease levels of cariogenic and periodontal pathogens. While promising effects are observed—particularly with strains like Lactobacillus reuteri, L. salivarius, and L. rhamnosus—
📖 افتح في inklap 🔗 DOI 📮 اطلب بحثاً