Probiotics – a promising way of halitosis treatment?

Objectives: In the treatment of halitosis, various bactericidal and bacteriostatic agents have been used until now. In the present study an attempt was made at using lactic acid bacteria, which would colonize the oral cavity and cause a decrease in the number of bacteria responsible for halitosis. The aim of the study was an to evaluate an efficacy of the treatment in comparison to other methods. Materials and Methods: 84 patients suffering from halitosis (avg.41.2+/-11.94 year old) and 40 healthy volunteers (control group) (avg. 36.9+/-11.74 year old) participated in the study. Halitosis was diagnosed with average VSC level >=125ppb and the organoleptic measurement (OM) was >=2 (0-5 scale). Patients with halitosis were randomised into treatment groups. Zinc tablets, tablets and mouthwash containing chlorhexidine or an agent containing lyophilized lactic acid-forming bacteria were used. In all subjects an organoleptic and halimetric examination was performed, plaque index (PlI) and gingival index (GI) were recorded and salivary low molecular weight amines were determined by the ninhydrine method. Efficacy of the treatment was evaluated after finishing therapy and after 3 and 6 months. Statistical analysis was performed. Results: The decrease in OM was maintained for 3 months, and was greatest for zinc tablets (p<0.05). VSC was decreased most strongly by zinc tablets (p<0.05), but the effect lasted less than 3 months. All agents used decreased the salivary amines in patients as compared to controls (p<0.001), some up to 6 months. PlI values decreased in all groups and this improvement was maintained for 21 days. GI values did not change during the period of observation. Conclusion: 1.The use of probiotics is promising in the treatment of halitosis 2.The greatest efficacy in the treatment of halitosis was found for zinc tablets 3. Halitosis is subject to recurrence and requires maintenance therapy