• Jintakorn Kuvatanasuchati, B.Sc., D.D.S., M.S., Cert. in Oral Microbiology

Objective To review the definition of probiotics and definition of microorganism as probiotics.

Source Clinical trial and meta-analysis and review article related to pediatric are searched.

Summary of the finding Scientific literature on probiotics have remarkably increased in the last 10
years. The mechanism of action has been experimentally investigated. Studies indicated that
probiotics could act by competing with pathogens, modifying the intestinal environment by reduction
in pH as a result of fermentation products, interacting and modulating local and systemic inflammatory
and immune response. Clinical trials and meta-analysis showed that probiotics seemed to contribute
towards the prevention of acute diarrhea and of antibiotic-associated diarrhea. A study also showed that
probiotics can reduce the occurrence of atopic dermatitis.

Conclusion The use of the term probiotics for living organism date back to 1989. They were
regarded as a supplement of living microorganisms that bring a health benefit by improving the
balance of the intestinal microbiota. However, it is necessary that the current definition of probiotics
be further developed so as to allow choosing a probiotics for each clinical situation of prevention
and treatment. The study about the role of probiotics in oral health, such as a study of probiotics
related to halitosis and dental caries, is scant when compare with the study about probiotics in
digestive system. This article may stimulate more research in this field in the future.

(CU Dent J. 2007;30:205-18)