2019 Volume 9 Issue 1 Pages 10-17
Periodontal disease is caused by bacterial infection of the oral cavity, and Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis) is the main cause of chronic periodontitis. Regular toothbrushing and the routine use of antibacterial agents are common methods of plaque control. The use of so-called “probiotic” microorganisms to prevent infection in this context has recently attracted increased attention. The current study assessed the bactericidal activities of Lactobacillus salivarius, Lactobacillus acidophilus, and Lactobacillus casei—which are commonly used as probiotics—against P. gingivalis. Mixed cultures containing each Lactobacillus species and P. gingivalis in equal concentrations were generated, and the subsequent numbers of viable bacteria were measured. The odors of mixed cultures were also measured. Furthermore, the disc diffusion method was used to investigate P. gingivalis viability in the presence of solutions derived from Lactobacillus cultures in conjunction with the measurement of inhibitory zones. Bactericidal activity against P. gingivalis was observed in all mixed cultures. Odor was also reduced. Notably however, in disc diffusion antimicrobial tests using culture-derived solutions there were no significant differences in any inhibitory zones. Live lactic acid bacteria may exert bactericidal effects on P. gingivalis. In the present study, it was suggested new possibilities for the prevention of periodontal disease using probiotics, including Lactobacillus bacteria.
