But there’s a problem.

Harmful bacteria don’t act alone – and wiping out all bacteria often creates the perfect conditions for them to come roaring back.

Emerging research suggests a smarter strategy: working with beneficial bacteria, not against them.

Periodontal Disease Is a Microbial Imbalance (not an infection)

Periodontitis is caused by bacteria, but not in the way we once thought.

Research shows that so-called “periodontal pathogens” (such as Porphyromonas gingivalis) are present in both healthy mouths and diseased ones. The difference isn’t their presence – it’s their dominance.

When harmful bacteria overwhelm beneficial species, inflammation follows. Over time, this inflammatory response damages gums, connective tissue, and bone.

This reframes periodontal disease as a problem of microbial imbalance, not simply poor hygiene.

Why Conventional Treatments Fall Short

Standard periodontal therapies — scaling, root planing, antiseptics, and antibiotics — can be effective in the short term. However, they have clear limitations:

• They remove beneficial bacteria along with harmful ones
• Pathogens often recolonise treated sites
• Antibiotic resistance is an increasing concern
• Long-term disease management relies heavily on repeated intervention

In short: we’re good at clearing the battlefield, but not at rebuilding it.

What Are Probiotics in Oral Health?

According to the World Health Organization, probiotics are “live microorganisms which, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host.”

In oral health, probiotics are typically delivered through:

• Lozenges
• Chewing gum
• Powders

Unlike antibiotics, probiotics don’t aim to sterilise the mouth. Instead, they support oral health by competing with pathogens and calming inflammation.

How Probiotics May Help Gum Health

The review highlights several mechanisms by which oral probiotics may support periodontal health:

1. Inhibiting Harmful Bacteria

Certain probiotic strains produce bacteriocins and other antimicrobial substances that suppress periodontal pathogens and interfere with plaque biofilm formation.

2. Competing for Space

Probiotics can adhere to oral tissues and dental surfaces, making it harder for harmful bacteria to colonise.

3. Reducing Inflammation

Some strains reduce inflammatory mediators such as matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and prostaglandins, which are linked to tissue destruction in periodontitis.

4. Supporting Bone Health

Fermentation by specific probiotic strains can generate bioactive peptides that stimulate bone-forming cells, potentially helping counter bone loss associated with advanced periodontal disease.

Evidence Across Key Oral Conditions

Gingivitis

Clinical studies reviewed showed that probiotic strains such as Lactobacillus reuteri and Lactobacillus casei were associated with:

• Reduced gingival inflammation
• Lower enzyme activity linked to tissue breakdown

Periodontitis

Healthy individuals were found to naturally harbour higher levels of beneficial lactobacilli and bifidobacteria compared to those with chronic periodontitis, suggesting these bacteria play a role in maintaining oral balance.

Halitosis

Probiotics showed particularly strong promise in managing bad breath. Strains such as Streptococcus salivarius K12 reduced volatile sulphur compounds – the primary cause of oral malodour more sustainably than chemical mouthwashes.

Bacterial Replacement Therapy: A Bigger Idea

While probiotics offer temporary support, bacterial replacement therapy aims for something more ambitious: long-term microbiome change.

Instead of ingesting bacteria, clinicians directly introduce beneficial strains into periodontal pockets after cleaning. Animal studies demonstrated:

• Reduced pocket depth
• Less bleeding
• Improved attachment levels
• Increased bone density

This approach is based on “guided recolonisation”. Deliberately rebuilding the oral ecosystem with health-associated bacteria.

Although still experimental, it represents a fundamental shift in periodontal treatment philosophy.

What This Means for the Future of Oral Care

The key insight from this research is simple but powerful:

Periodontal disease may be better managed by engineering a healthy oral microbiome, rather than repeatedly destroying it.

Probiotics are not a replacement for brushing, flossing, or professional care – but they may become valuable adjuncts in long-term gum health strategies.

Bacterial replacement therapy, while still in early stages, points to a future where dentists actively design healthier oral ecosystems.

The Bottom Line

• Periodontal disease is driven by microbial imbalance and inflammation
• Probiotics can help rebalance the oral microbiome and reduce inflammation
• Benefits are strain-specific and often require continued use
• Bacterial replacement therapy shows promise for longer-lasting effects, but needs further clinical validation

As oral health science evolves, one thing is clear: the future isn’t about killing bacteria, it’s about choosing the right ones.

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So what’s causing it – and what can be done beyond extra brushing and rinsing?

The human jaw has been shrinking through evolution. As we transitioned from hunter-gatherers to modern diets and lifestyles, our jaw size reduced, but our teeth count didn’t. This mismatch contributes to overcrowded, misaligned teeth, making orthodontics increasingly common.

In fact, over 50% of people require orthodontic treatment, according to clinical studies. Braces help correct misalignment, but they also introduce new hygiene challenges.

Why Braces Increase the Risk of Halitosis

Braces create additional surfaces and spaces where food debris and plaque can accumulate. These trapped particles are difficult to remove, even with diligent brushing and flossing.

This build-up encourages the growth of anaerobic bacteria, which produce volatile sulphur compounds (VSCs) such as hydrogen sulphide and methyl mercaptan – the primary culprits behind that unpleasant “bad breath” smell.

What Are Volatile Sulphur Compounds (VSCs)?

VSCs are gases released by specific bacteria as they break down proteins in the mouth. The presence of orthodontic devices can amplify this process, especially in the absence of thorough oral care.

But what if there were a way to balance the oral microbiome to naturally reduce these bacteria?

BLIS M18, a targeted strain of Streptococcus salivarius, is a precision probiotic developed to support oral health by modulating the bacteria responsible for bad breath.

Recent studies have shown that when BLIS M18 is co-cultured with VSC-producing bacteria, it significantly reduces the levels of hydrogen sulphide and methyl mercaptan. This makes it a promising adjunct to traditional oral hygiene, especially for people wearing braces.

Clinical Evidence that BLIS M18 Works

In a randomised, triple-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial, researchers tested the effect of BLIS M18 in a group of 64 patients aged 10–30 with orthodontic braces. Participants took either BLIS M18 lozenges or a placebo daily for one month.

Key findings:

• Both groups saw reduced VSC levels at 1-month check-in.
• At the 3-month follow-up, the placebo group’s bad breath returned to baseline.
• The BLIS M18 group showed further reduction in VSCs—suggesting a long-term probiotic benefit.

Why BLIS M18 Matters for Orthodontic Patients

For dental professionals, product formulators, and caregivers, BLIS M18 offers a new way to tackle an age-old problem. It works at the microbial level, enhancing patient outcomes without altering their orthodontic routine.

It’s not just about masking bad breath—it’s about restoring microbial balance, reducing the source of halitosis, and giving patients confidence during treatment.

The evidence is clear: BLIS M18 is a clinically validated oral probiotic that reduces halitosis in individuals with braces by decreasing the production of harmful VSCs.

For brands and professionals in the oral health space, BLIS M18 provides:

• A science-backed product to complement braces-care regimens
• A differentiated solution in a competitive market
• A trustworthy alternative to temporary fixes like rinses or breath sprays
  

Ready to Innovate in Braces Care?

To learn more about integrating BLIS M18 into your product line or clinical practice, contact our team or explore our precision probiotic solutions here.

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Enter BLIS M18, a precision probiotic with targeted action against oral pathogens. Unlike generic probiotics, BLIS M18 is a native strain of Streptococcus salivarius that’s been clinically studied to shift the oral microbiome — where gum disease starts.

New Study Confirms: BLIS M18 Supports Gum Health at a Microbiological Level

In a double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial conducted by Wei-Ju Chen et al., BLIS M18 was shown to deliver statistically significant improvements across three key oral health metrics:

• Reduced pocket depth — a primary clinical indicator of periodontal disease
• Lower bleeding on probing and plaque index
• Sustained microbiome modulation — even after stopping treatment
  
  

Why This Matters for Innovation Teams, Product Developers & R&D Leaders

As the global market for oral probiotics grows (CAGR 7%+), manufacturers are looking for clinically validated, IP-protected ingredients that meet rising consumer expectations for efficacy, transparency, and innovation.

BLIS M18 offers:

• Clinically supported claims for gum health and microbiome balance
• Precision formulation for targeted efficacy
• Compatibility with various delivery formats (e.g., lozenges, powders, strips)

And because BLIS M18 is strain-specific and studied in human trials, it provides credible differentiation in a crowded market — exactly what formulators and brand managers need to stand out.

Curious how BLIS M18 works – and what this could mean for your product development or clinical approach?

Download the full whitepaper for all the data, charts, and implications

The post Can Probiotics Improve Gum Health? New Research Says Yes appeared first on BLIS Technologies - probiotic manufacturers.

From cutting-edge research to sustainable lab initiatives, their contributions are helping to shape the future of probiotics. We spoke to three team members about their career paths, the challenges they’ve navigated, and their advice for the next generation of scientists.

Q: What inspired you to pursue a career in science?

SE: I enjoyed learning Science from High School. It was one of my favourite subjects. I used to admire people wearing white lab coats in the lab and doing experiments. I thought that’s pretty cool. The word “Scientist” always fascinates me and makes me feel proud.

After finishing High School, I was not sure what I wanted to do next. Genetics was my favourite, and I heard about “Dolly” (the first mammal that was cloned from an adult stomatic cell).

I wanted to do something similar and create something new to become a scientist. I wanted to pursue genetic engineering. Unfortunately, that was not an option in my hometown at that time. So I took Microbiology/Biotechnology which is similar. My very first project was working on “Recombinant DNA Technology – Genetic Manipulation of Tobacco Plant with Green Fluorescence Protein (GFP) gene through Agrobacterium mediated transformation”.

Q: What’s the most exciting or impactful project you’ve worked on at BLIS, and why?

SE: I joined BLIS Technologies in 2012 and was very fortunate to work with Dr Philip Wescombe on the Persistence trial: “Comparison of oral persistence of the probiotic BLIS K12 when delivered in different formats consisting of Lozenges, Chewing Gum, Mouthwash, Flavoured Milk, Dr Milk, Ice cream, Yoghurt and Frozen Yoghurt”.

This project gave me so much insight on the concept of “probiotics” – friendly oral bacteria that can be beneficial for human health.

Q: What challenges have you faced as a woman in science, and how have you overcome them?

SE: As a woman working in science, I’ve never had to face any challenges so far. But as a full-time working mum, I had to overcome challenges for work-life balance. This was only possible by the support of my employer (BLIS) giving me flexibility in work time. A huge thanks sincerely to my reporting managers and colleagues for your help throughout these years. Also I am thankful for the support from my family, parents, and friends.

Q: What advice would you give to young women considering a career in science?

SE: Science is an exciting world of opportunities to explore. We haven’t managed to unravel the secrets of our universe yet. If you see science as fascinating and want to make a positive impact to the world, nothing should stop you. Patience and perseverance are the key to success. Science cannot be solved immediately. The word “repeat” is something that you will see mostly every day.

Sometimes it will take many “repeats” to complete a single experiment, at least from my experience. All the very best to you all!

Q: What inspired you to pursue a career in science?

AV: I have loved science from a young age and was inspired by my grandfathers who both worked in industries within the science field, with one working in healthcare and the other horticulture. They both had great passion for what they did and it seemed destined I would follow in their footsteps.

Q: What’s the most exciting or impactful project you’ve worked on at BLIS, and why?

AV: The work we have done on the M. luteus BLIS Q24 skin serum has been one of the most rewarding projects for me thus far. I started working on this project early on in my BLIS career and helped progress this from the first steps until a safe efficacious product was the result. Probiotics for skincare is in its infancy and developing one of the world’s first room-temperature, shelf-stable live probiotic skin products has been extremely challenging but equally rewarding.

Q: What challenges have you faced as a woman in science, and how have you overcome them?

AV: I think my biggest challenge was trying to work out what to study at university and what I actually wanted to do as a career. I started out with first year health science knowing I wanted a career in a health-related industry. The variety in this course allowed me to focus into microbiology and epidemiology as two of my favourite aspects of the course. I completed my BSc in Microbiology and went directly into the workforce. I got really lucky with my first couple of jobs in the food industry which covered multiple disciplines including microbiology, chemistry and quality. This broad knowledge base gathered early in my career lead to BLIS Technologies where I have been for almost 10 years.  

Q: What advice would you give to young women considering a career in science?

AV: Don’t be afraid to if you’re not sure exactly where you want go with your career. Dip your toe in with a first year course, an entry job, or an internship and find where your passion lies, (or doesn’t).

Failure can teach you more than success. It often takes a series of experiments that don’t work, adjustments and redo’s before the answer is discovered.

Q: What inspired you to pursue a career in science?

NJ: Initially, I wanted to be a veterinary nurse because I was passionate about animals—I was a keen horse rider and loved being around them. That didn’t work out, but I always had a strong interest in biology. Becoming a Lab Technician appealed to my practical, hands-on nature—I knew a desk job wasn’t for me!

At 16, growing up in England, I left school and was lucky to land an apprenticeship in a lab training scheme. Over two years, I rotated through different labs, which exposed me to various fields of science. That’s when I first encountered bacteria—and I was hooked! I originally wanted to work in a bacteriology lab but ended up in tissue culture. My employer supported my education, first through a Certificate in Sciences and then a National Certificate in Science, which made securing a full-time job much easier.

Throughout my career, I’ve continued studying, with all my further education funded by my employers. One of my biggest opportunities was being one of three women sponsored to complete a science degree. When I first left school, I hadn’t considered higher education, but going back as a mature student was an advantage—I had a clear career path and a strong motivation, especially knowing my employer was investing in me.

Q: What’s the most exciting or impactful project you’ve worked on at BLIS, and why?

NJ: Two projects stand out. First, the research and development of our Synbiotic IP/patent. It was an exciting challenge—working on something new, running diverse experiments, and using my problem-solving skills to figure out different ways of conducting research. The variety of work kept it engaging, and having my name on a patent was exciting too!

Second, I initiated the My Green Lab certification for our lab—the first in New Zealand to achieve this. This was a particularly meaningful project for me because I’m passionate about sustainability, and labs generate a huge amount of waste. Knowing I played a role in making our lab more environmentally responsible was personally fulfilling.

Q: What challenges have you faced as a woman in science, and how have you overcome them?

NJ: I’ve been fortunate not to face any significant challenges as a woman in science. Work-life balance has been manageable, and I had no trouble finding part-time roles while raising young children. Both academia and commercial science have offered flexibility, though I’d say the commercial sector comes with more pressure—but also the reward of seeing your work turn into real-world products. It’s about having a job that makes you think what you do matters. I might not be helping animals but I am helping people!

Q: What advice would you give to young women considering a career in science?

NJ: Just give everything a go! Get as much hands-on experience as you can, because often it’s about being in the right place at the right time—but you need to be open to new experiences for those opportunities to arise.

Also, don’t be afraid to study later in life or change direction. There are huge advantages to being a mature student—you have more focus, a clearer sense of purpose, and often, employer support. My career has evolved through different roles and projects, but each experience has built a strong foundation of skills and knowledge that I can apply anywhere.

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Beyond cavities and gum disease, gum disease is now being linked to cognitive health, particularly in the context of dementia. This growing body of research highlights the importance of a holistic approach to health and underscores the intricate connections within our bodies.

Understanding Dementia

Dementia is a broad term used to describe a range of neurological conditions that affect the brain, leading to impaired memory, thinking, and behavior. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, accounting for ~ 60-80% of the cases. While the exact cause of dementia remains elusive, various risk factors, including genetics, lifestyle, and environmental factors, have been identified.

Several studies have found compelling links between oral health and dementia:

• • A large-scale study revealed that professional dental cleaning and frequent tooth brushing were associated with a decreased risk of dementia.[1]

• • Research has shown a connection between periodontal disease, dental caries, and a high number of missing teeth with an increased risk of dementia.

• • A study of aging nuns found that severe tooth loss was associated with a 6.4-fold increased risk of dementia compared to those with fewer tooth losses.

• Longitudinal studies have consistently shown a correlation between tooth loss and cognitive decline.[2]

Potential Mechanisms

Bacterial Invasion:
The mouth is a gateway for bacteria to enter the bloodstream. Harmful bacteria from the oral cavity can travel to the brain, potentially leading to inflammation. Studies have identified the presence of oral bacteria, particularly Porphyromonas gingivalis, in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients. This bacterium, commonly associated with gum disease, may contribute to the formation of amyloid-beta plaques, a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease.[3]

Inflammation:
Chronic gum inflammation can lead to systemic inflammation, which may in turn contribute to neuroinflammation in the brain. This chronic inflammatory state is believed to play a significant role in the development of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. [4]

Systemic Health
Poor oral health often correlates with other systemic health issues such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes, which are also risk factors for dementia. This interrelationship suggests that individuals with poor oral health might be at a compounded risk for cognitive decline.

The importance of Oral Health

Given these findings, maintaining good oral health becomes even more critical. Here are some key practices:

• • Brush teeth for at least two minutes twice a day

• • Floss regularly

• • Use mouthwash

• • Balance your oral microbiome with good bacteria (probiotic supplements)

In conclusion, the emerging evidence linking oral health to cognitive function opens up exciting possibilities for dementia prevention and overall health promotion. By prioritizing oral hygiene and regular dental care, we may be taking an important step towards protecting our brain health as we age.

References:

[1] https://www.forbes.com/sites/milletienne/2023/10/01/study-links-dementia-to-oral-health-lets-talk-oral-brain-connection/

[2] https://www.washingtonpost.com/wellness/2023/09/21/teeth-gums-oral-health-dementia-alzheimers/

[3] https://www.nia.nih.gov/news/large-study-links-gum-disease-dementia

[4] https://www.forbes.com/sites/milletienne/2023/10/01/study-links-dementia-to-oral-health-lets-talk-oral-brain-connection/

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It is a particularly painful infection causing swelling, pressure and blockage of the middle ear, that can lead to temporary loss of hearing and fever.

What causes Otitis Media?

Eustachian tubes are a pair of narrow tubes that connect each middle ear to the back of the throat, enabling them to regulate air pressure in the middle ear and drain normal secretions.

In children, the eustachian tubes are shorter, narrower, and more horizontal compared to adults. This anatomy makes it easier for bacteria and viruses from the upper respiratory tract to reach the middle ear, leading to infections.

When the eustachian tubes become infected, they swell and block mucus from draining, building pressure in the middle ear. This mucus is a breeding ground for bacteria, which then multiply and make pus that builds up in the middle ear, causing the infection and pressure.

Ear infections are not contagious, but upper respiratory tract infections, such as colds and flu, can lead to otitis media making them more prevalent in winter.

How can BLIS K12 help prevent otitis media?

Otitis Media can be caused by both bacterial and viral infections.
BLIS K12 is a live oral probiotic that has been proven to inhibit a range of bacteria that lead to Otitis Media. BLIS K12 colonises and naturally competes with pathogens for the same binding site, effectively crowding out the bad bacteria.

On top of this BLIS K12 naturally produces bacteriocins that actively target and destroy the cell wall of these pathogenic bacteria, helping prevent infection and maintain a healthy, balanced microbiome.
Common bacterial pathogens that cause otitis media are Streptococcus pneumoniae, Turicella otitidis, Alloiococcus otitidis, Streptococcus pyogenes and Moraxella catarrhalis – all of which have been shown to be inhibited by BLIS K12.¹

For viral infections, BLIS K12 has been shown to stimulate Interferon Gamma and Secretory Immunoglobulin, both key antibodies leading to a much faster immune response and less severe infection.

What have clinical studies have shown?

In a clinical trial completed by Di Pierro (2016)² with 222 children aged 3 years old, showed the children who consumed BLIS K12 over a 6-month period had a reduced incidence rate of otitis media by 44.1% compared to 80.2% for the control group.

A second trial by Di Pierro (2018)³, with 133 children between the age of 3 and 14 years who were susceptible to otitis media had a reduced infection rate by 70% compared to the previous year.

In conclusion

Approximately 80% of children will experience otitis media during their lifetime, with many experiencing recurrent episodes. It is very painful and can lead to burst eardrums if not treated effectively.

BLIS K12 is an advanced oral probiotic that helps prevent otitis media and a wide range of other upper respiratory tract infections by inhibiting the pathogens that cause infection.

Get in touch to learn more about BLIS K12 and how it can be used as a key ingredient in immune health supplements:

References:

1. Chen et al. In vitro Inhibition of Clinical Isolates of Otitis Media Pathogens by the Probiotic Streptococcus salivarius BLIS K12. Probiotics and Antimicrobial Proteins, 2021, 13(3), 734–738.
2. Di Pierro, F., Colombo, M., Giuliani, M. G., Danza, M. L., Basile, I., Bollani, T., Conti, A. M., Zanvit, A., & Rottoli, A. S. (2016). Effect of administration of Streptococcus salivarius K12 on the occurrence of streptococcal pharyngo-tonsillitis, scarlet fever and acute otitis media in 3 years old children. European Review for Medical and Pharmacological Sciences, 20(21), 4601–4606.
3. Di Pierro, F., Risso, P., Poggi, E., Timitilli, A., Bolloli, S., Bruno, M., Caneva, E., Campus, R., & Giannattasio, A. (2018). Use of Streptococcus salivarius K12 to reduce the incidence of pharyngo-tonsillitis and acute otitis media in children: A retrospective analysis in not-recurrent pediatric subjects. Minerva Pediatrica, 70(3), 240–245.

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The recent scientific breakthroughs in understanding the interplay between the immune system, the oral microbiota, and the SARS-CoV-2 virus have paved the way for exciting revelations in the field of probiotics. A groundbreaking study, led by Andrey Kruglov and his team, sheds light on the cross-regulation of antibody responses against the SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein and the commensal microbiota, particularly the role of BLIS K12 Streptococcus salivarius (S. salivarius) in enhancing protective immunity.

The Dance of Immunity and Microbiota:

The study reveals that SARS-CoV-2 vaccination triggers an early increase in S. salivarius levels in the oral cavity. This spike in BLIS K12 is not a mere coincidence but a result of the molecular mimicry mechanism. Antibodies produced in response to the viral Spike protein also bind to BLIS K12, thanks to molecular mimicry.

The researchers found that BLIS K12, a member of the human microbiota, induces cross-reactive anti-Spike antibodies in mice, aiding in the clearance of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Furthermore, specific proteins within BLIS K12, such as RSSL-01370, show homology to the Spike receptor-binding domain.

Immunization with RSSL-01370 in mice resulted in the production of anti-Spike antibodies, emphasizing the potential of BLIS K12 as a key player in enhancing immunity.

Read full study here: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chom.2023.10.007

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the symbiotic relationship between the immune system and the microbiota, particularly BLIS K12, has far-reaching implications in the post-SARS-CoV-2 vaccination landscape. As we continue to unravel the intricate dance between antibodies, microbes, and immunity, the role of probiotics becomes increasingly significant. Our commitment to providing cutting-edge probiotic solutions remains steadfast, with BLIS K12 at the forefront of promoting a healthier and more resilient future.

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Taking oral probiotics during pregnancy has several first-hand benefits; here are a few of them.

Boosting Immunity – Oral probiotics help boost the immune system, reducing the risk of infections and diseases. Pregnant women are more susceptible to flu and colds – taking BLIS K12 oral probiotics can help prevent them by stimulating immune defences. 

Prevents Vaginal Infections – Probiotics can help prevent vaginal infections, such as bacterial vaginosis and yeast infections. These infections are common during pregnancy and can cause discomfort and complications.

Reduces the Risk of Allergies – Studies have shown that taking probiotics during pregnancy can reduce the risk of allergies in babies. ¹ Probiotics help develop a balanced microbiome, which is essential for preventing allergies.

Helps Prevent Preterm Labour – Preterm labour is a significant risk during pregnancy. Studies have shown that periodontal disease is a substantial contributor to preterm labour and low birth weight babies. ²  Taking an oral probiotic such as BLIS M18 helps support teeth and gum health. 

Promotes Digestive Health – Probiotics can help improve digestion and reduce constipation during pregnancy. Constipation is a common problem during pregnancy, and a gut probiotic can help keep things regular.

Another key benefit is shaping your baby’s microbiome. During and after birth, the newborn is exposed to a wide variety of microorganisms, all of which shape the baby’s microbiome. These early microbial communities play a major role in shaping the adult microbiota. Studies have shown that constant exposure to the mother’s microbiota reinforces the child’s microbiome, with many of the mother’s beneficial bacteria colonizing, giving the infant a well-balanced microbiome. ³

[1] Colquitt AS, Miles EA, Calder PC. Do Probiotics in Pregnancy Reduce Allergies and Asthma in Infancy and Childhood? A Systematic Review. Nutrients. 2022 Apr 28;14(9):1852. doi: 10.3390/nu14091852. PMID: 35565819; PMCID: PMC9105059.

[2] Walia M, Saini N. Relationship between periodontal diseases and preterm birth: Recent epidemiological and biological data. Int J Appl Basic Med Res. 2015 Jan-Apr;5(1):2-6. doi: 10.4103/2229-516X.149217. PMID: 25664259; PMCID: PMC4318095.

[3] Tagg JR, Pybus V, Phillips LV, Fiddes TM. Application of inhibitor typing in a study of the transmission and retention in the human mouth of the bacterium Streptococcus salivarius. Arch Oral Biol. 1983;28(10):911-5. doi: 10.1016/0003-9969(83)90086-9. PMID: 6360104.

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Probiotics, often referred to as “good bacteria,” play a crucial role in maintaining the skin’s microbiome, the complex ecosystem of microorganisms that live on its surface. When this balance is disrupted, it can lead to skin issues like rosacea.

How do probiotics work?

Probiotics are live bacteria that keep you healthy. The more good bacteria we have in our body, the more we can fight off bad bacteria and prevent problems such as IBS and gastrointestinal issues.

Just like our gut, our skin is home to millions of bacteria, fungi and viruses , which are collectively known as the skin’s microbiome. When used in skincare, probiotics contribute to microbial diversity that is commonly lost through exfoliation and cleansing with harsh products. Probiotic cream increases the number of healthy bacteria on the skin’s barrier and forms a protective shield against bad bacteria.

Here’s how probiotics can benefit rosacea-prone skin:

1. Calming inflammation and redness

The imbalance of microflora on the skin’s surface can trigger inflammation, exacerbating rosacea symptoms. Probiotics, when applied topically or ingested orally, can help restore balance to the skin’s microbiome. These beneficial bacteria work to reduce inflammation and redness, providing relief to sensitive and reactive skin.

2. Strengthening the skin barrier

A compromised skin barrier is often associated with rosacea, leading to increased sensitivity and susceptibility to irritants. Probiotics aid in reinforcing the skin’s natural defense mechanisms, fortifying the barrier function. This strengthened barrier helps shield the skin from external aggressors, reducing the likelihood of flare-ups.

3. Regulating Immune Responses

Research suggests that an imbalance in the skin’s microbiome can trigger an overactive immune response, contributing to rosacea symptoms. Probiotics have shown the potential to modulate the immune system, regulating the body’s responses to inflammation. This modulation can help manage the severity and frequency of rosacea flare-ups.

4. Maintain skin hydration

Probiotics assist in maintaining optimal skin hydration levels by supporting the production of ceramides and lipids, crucial components of the skin barrier. Well-hydrated skin is better equipped to manage rosacea symptoms, reducing dryness and irritation.

5. Supporting overall skin health

Beyond managing rosacea, incorporating probiotics into skincare routines offers holistic benefits. Probiotics can enhance the overall health of the skin, promoting a balanced and resilient complexion.

References:

[1] Weitao Zhu, Michael R. Hamblin and Xiang Wen, Role of skin microbiota and intestinal microbiome in rosacea Frontiers in Microbiology

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Otitis Media is inflammation or infection of the middle ear. It is common in children as their shorter, more horizontal eustachian tubes let bacteria and viruses find their way into the middle ear more easily. Chronic otitis media can lead to ongoing ear drainage, hearing loss, and in some cases, damage to the structures of the middle ear.

Tonsillitis (strep throat) – is the inflammation of the tonsils, two oval-shaped pads of tissue at the back of the throat. These glands are part of the immune system and help trap and filter out bacteria and viruses that enter the body through the mouth and nose. Tonsillitis is also common in children, but it can affect individuals of any age. It can be caused by both viral and bacterial infections, with bacterial infections that can lead to strep throat. 

Dental caries – the mouth is home to various types of bacteria, including Streptococcus mutans, which play a significant role in dental caries. These bacteria form a sticky film called dental plaque on the teeth. When sugars and carbohydrates from food and drinks are consumed, these bacteria break them down into acids and can erode the minerals in tooth enamel, leading to the formation of cavities.

Gingivitis is caused when bacteria and plaque build-up on your teeth. Plaque that stays on your teeth can harden under your gumline into tartar, causing gum inflammation and bleeding gums when brushing your teeth. If gingivitis is left untreated, it can progress to a more severe form of gum disease called periodontitis. 

Halitosis can affect people at any point in their life. However, it can increase with age due to less saliva and medications where dry mouth is a side effect. Halitosis can be attributed to two main microbial factors. The first factor is an imbalance in the oral microbiome, while the second factor involves the presence of specific bacterial species that produce unpleasant odorous compounds. 

Sinusitis refers to the inflammation or swelling of the tissues lining the sinuses. When the sinuses become inflamed, they can become blocked and filled with fluid, leading to sinusitis. It can be caused by viral (i.e. common cold or influenza) or bacterial infections.

Periodontal Disease is a more severe gum disease that develops from the early stage of gingivitis. It is more likely to occur in older people and can lead to supporting bone loss around the teeth and a range of systemic health conditions, such as cardiovascular health, mental health, diabetes, pneumonia and pre-term births.

Xerostomia, commonly known as dry mouth, is a condition characterized by insufficient saliva production. Saliva is crucial for various oral functions, including lubricating the mouth, aiding in digestion, and helping to maintain oral health by neutralizing acids and preventing bacterial overgrowth. When there is an insufficient flow of saliva, it can lead to discomfort and contribute to oral health issues. Saliva production tends to decrease with age, and older adults may be more prone to xerostomia.

Candidiasis (oral thrush) is a fungal infection caused by an overgrowth of the yeast Candida in the mouth. It causes creamy white lesions usually on the tongue or inner cheeks. When there is an imbalance in the oral microbiome, such as a weakened immune system or disruption of the normal oral flora, Candida can multiply and lead to an infection.

How BLIS K12 and BLIS M18 probiotics help balance your oral microbiome.

Oral probiotics are beneficial bacteria that, when introduced into the oral cavity, can contribute to the balance of the oral microbiome. The oral microbiome refers to the complex community of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microbes, that inhabit the mouth. Maintaining a balanced oral microbiome is crucial for oral health, as an imbalance can contribute to the above health conditions.

Many of these microbial health conditions have a common theme, an overabundance of pathogenic bacteria that cause these oral infections to take place. BLIS K12 and BLIS M18 naturally produce proteins called Bacteriocin-Like Inhibitory Substances (BLIS) that target and inhibit bad bacteria, ensuring the microbiome remains in a balanced, healthy state.

The following table shows the antimicrobial activity BLIS K12 and BLIS M18

Pathogen	Linked to	Inhibitory Strain
Actinomyces viscosus	Root surface caries	BLIS M18
Streptococcus mutans	Dental Caries	BLIS M18
Prevotella intermedia	Ulcerative gingivitis	BLIS M18
Fusobacterium nucleatum A. actinomycetemcomitans Porphyromonas gingivalis Bacteroides intermedius	Periodontitis	BLIS M18
Streptococcus pyogenes	Acute pharyngitis, tonsilitis	BLIS K12
Streptococcus pneumoniae	Pneumonia, Otitis Media, Sinusitis	BLIS K12
Porphyromonas gingivalis Prevotella intermedia Eubacterium sulci Solobacterium moore	Halitosis	BLIS K12
Candida (fungus)	Candidiasis	BLIS K12

Oral probiotics play a crucial role in promoting overall health by fostering a balanced and diverse microbiome within the oral cavity. They help inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria, reduce the risk of oral infections, and support immune function. Incorporating oral probiotics into one’s routine can be a valuable strategy for promoting holistic health and preventing a range of oral and systemic issues throughout your life.

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