Improving effects and mechanisms of prebiotics on oral health: a review

Abstract:

The balance of oral microbiota is a key factor in maintaining oral health. Prebiotics are a kind of organic substances that selectively promote the metabolism of beneficial microorganisms. They mainly exert their functions by adjusting the oral microbial growth and metabolism, inhibiting the formation of dental plaque biofilm, regulating the host immune response and oxidative stress response, and participating in the nitrate-nitrite-nitric oxide pathway. Studies have demonstrated that prebiotics play a positive role in the prevention and treatment of common oral diseases, such as dental caries, periodontal diseases, and oral mucosal disease, and are expected to become a potential way to prevent and treat oral diseases. This article reviews the recent research progress in prebiotics, their effects on oral health, and the mechanisms of prebiotics in regulating oral microecology.