Method: Saliva samples of 42 volunteers were collected before and after the use of probiotic for 30 days, three times in week. The samples were plated in Dextrose Saboraud Agar with chloramphenicol, the colony-forming units (CFU/mL) were counted and the species of Candida were identified. Anti-Candida IgA analysis was conducted using the ELISA technique.
Result: It was verified a reduction in Candida prevalence (from 88.1% to 78.6%), in CFU/mL counts of Candida (p=0,01) and in numbers of non-albicans species, after the consumption of the probiotic. Immunological analysis demonstrated a significant increase in anti-Candida IgA levels (p=0,066).
Conclusion: The probiotic consumption reduced the amount of Candida in oral cavity of elderly and increased specific secretory immune response against these yeasts, suggesting its possible use in controlling oral candidosis and promoting health among these individuals.