Effects of multi-strain probiotic-kefir on salivary mutans streptococci and lactobacilli

Objectives: It is recently documented that various formulations of probiotics have beneficial effects in reducing caries risk as well as on human health. The aim of the present study was to examine the efficacy of short-term consumption of multi-strain probiotic-kefir on salivary counts of mutans streptococci and lactobacilli in young adults. Methods: A total of 104 subjects aged between 20-27 years old were included in the study. Salivary flow rate, buffer capacity, salivary mutans streptococci and lactobacilli counts were detected in each subject after 3 weeks wash-out period using chair-side kits at baseline. After achieving adequate subjects, they were randomly assigned into three groups: Group I: consumption of 100 ml kefir (n=35), Group II: consumption of 2x100 ml kefir (n=35), Group III: consumption of 100 ml milk (n=34). A questionnaire investigating the oral and dietary habits of the subjects was also carried out for each subject. After 3 weeks consumption, salivary mutans streptococci and lactobacilli counts were re-evaluated. Results: Statistically significant reduction was observed in both salivary mutans streptococci and lactobacilli in Group II when compared with baseline (p=0.001, p=0.01 respectively). Conclusion: It could be suggested that short-term consumption of kefir might reduce the high levels of salivary mutans streptococci and lactobacilli.