Probiotics as an Adjunct in Periodontal Therapy: A Review with Focus on Thi Qar, Iraq

Abstract

Background: Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory condition that destroys the supporting structures of teeth and may lead to tooth loss if untreated. While scaling and root planning is the standard treatment, it often does not fully eliminate infection or inflammation. Probiotics have gained attention as a potential adjunct therapy due to their ability to modulate the oral microbiome and immune responses. Objective: To evaluate the clinical effectiveness of probiotic supplementation as an adjunct to SRP in patients with periodontitis. Methodology: A literature review was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane databases, and a clinical cohort study was carried out involving 60 patients in Thi Qar, Iraq. Patients were divided into two groups: one received SRP with a daily probiotic lozenge, while the other underwent SRP alone. Clinical parameters—plaque index, probing depth, clinical attachment level, and bleeding on probing were recorded at three and six months. Results: At three months, the probiotic group demonstrated greater reductions in probing depth and bleeding on probing. Improvements in plaque control and attachment gain were modest. By six months, benefits declined, particularly in mild cases. Conclusion: Probiotics show promise as a short-term adjunct to SRP. Further local trials are needed to determine optimal use.