Virginia Beach Dentist | How Probiotics Improve Oral Health

Dentist Near Me

Dentist in Virginia BeachProbiotics are typically advertised as being helpful for digestion. However, studies have shown that they can also improve oral health. Probiotics are beneficial for fighting infections that lead to oral disease.

Reducing Gingivitis

A study published in Contemporary Clinical Dentistry has found that probiotics can reduce gum bleeding in patients with moderate to severe gingivitis. In the trial, children were given either a placebo or two different combinations of probiotics. At the three-week mark, it was discovered that children who took probiotics had significant improvements in their gingival status.

Combating Periodontitis

Periodontitis is another oral disease that probiotics have been shown to fight. Periodontitis is caused by harmful bacteria that separate teeth from the gums creating pockets that can become infected. Probiotics can fight harmful bacteria and lessen the inflammation to help heal the mouth.

Fighting Cavities

Another finding from the trial of the Contemporary Clinical Dentistry showed that children who took probiotics also saw a significant decrease in plaque. The reduction of plaque leads to less decay. Probiotics fight the plaque and occupy the spaces on the teeth where bad bacteria thrive.

Minimizing Bad Breath

Another benefit of probiotics is the effect they have on bad breath. Bad breath is usually caused by volatile sulfur compound bacteria releasing odor-causing gases. Because probiotics are healthy bacteria, it is believed that they can eliminate the bad bacteria and maintain a healthy bacteria balance in your mouth.

The benefits of probiotics are not just limited to the digestive health. Researchers continue to conduct studies to discover new ways probiotics contribute to a healthy mouth and body.

Contact our team for more information on oral health or to schedule a visit today.

James L. Rutledge, DDS of Virginia Beach
2025 Pleasure House Rd., Virginia Beach, VA 23455
(757) 464-0271

How Can We Help You?

Dentist in Virginia Beach

Our dental office in Virginia Beach provides a variety of services, including cosmetic restorative, and preventive dentistry. We are experts is developing custom solutions for the most complex dental problems and concerns.

Schedule Appointment

What Our Clients Are Saying

Dentist in Virginia Beach

Phyllis W.

First visit I was warmly greeted by staff and Dr. My hygienist took time to know me and my concerns. She was very experienced and good at what she does. Thank you Karen! See you next time!

- Phyllis W.

Jennifer Roberts

Dr. Rutledge and his staff are both professional and kind. They are extremely welcoming and personable. I feel very confident in their abilities of providing excellent dental care, and I would recommend them to anyone looking for a dentist in the area

- Jennifer Roberts

Deborah C.

Very understanding and patient. Spent a lot of time getting to know me before ever looking in my mouth. I’m going back to take care of the problems I’ve let linger for far too long.

- Deborah C.

*Smiles pictured thanks to our actual patients.

Read More Testimonials

Read Our Virginia Beach Dental Blog

Dentist in Virginia Beach

Is Undiagnosed TMD Causing You Neck And Shoulder Pain?

September 9, 2020

Do you have frequent headaches or migraines, earaches or tinnitus, tender jaw muscles, or a dull aching facial pain? Do you often have neck and shoulder pain? Does your jaw lock or stray to one side when you open your mouth? These aches and pains may be related to the jaw joint, called the temporomandibular joint or “TMJ,” and the muscles that work to move the joint. These painful conditions are often called “TMD” for temporomandibular disorders.

More >>
A Letter To Our Patients...

March 21, 2020

Dear Friends, Families, and Valued Patients, As part of your... More >>

Virginia Beach VA Dentist |...

August 26, 2019

Taking care of your dentures can seem like an added chore. Don’t... More >>

Virginia Beach VA Dentist |...

August 22, 2019

When you are traveling, it can be challenging to keep up with your... More >>

Virginia Beach VA Dentist |...

August 14, 2019

Loose teeth, bad breath, and painful, bloody gums - these... More >>

Smile Gallery

Dentist in Virginia Beach

James Rutledge Dentistry | 2025 Pleasure House Rd. | Virginia Beach, VA 23455
Phone: (757) 464-0271