Bad breath, or halitosis, is often caused by the presence of harmful bacteria in the mouth that produce foul-smelling compounds. To be more precise, this is indicative of an imbalance between the good and bad bacteria in the mouth.
Traditional antibacterial mouthwashes will kill all bacteria in the mouth, both good and bad, and the bad bacteria will repopulate over time. Hence, one effective solution gaining popularity is the use of probiotics, namely K12, to rebalance the good bacteria instead. But what exactly is K12, and how does it help in treating bad breath?
What is K12? Streptococcus salivarius K12 is a strain of beneficial bacteria naturally found in the human oral cavity. Unlike harmful bacteria that produce volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs) responsible for bad breath, K12 probiotics work to promote a healthy oral microbiome.
How K12 Probiotics Combat Bad Breath
Inhibiting Harmful Bacteria: K12 produces bacteriocins, natural antimicrobial substances that inhibit the growth of bad breath-causing bacteria such as Porphyromonas gingivalis and Fusobacterium nucleatum. By reducing the population of these harmful bacteria, K12 helps maintain a balanced oral microbiome.
Reducing Volatile Sulfur Compounds (VSCs): The primary culprits behind bad breath are VSCs, such as hydrogen sulfide and methyl mercaptan. K12 probiotics can effectively decrease the levels of these compounds, leading to fresher breath.
Promoting Oral Health: K12 not only fights bad breath but also contributes to overall oral health. It helps prevent oral infections, reduces the incidence of sore throats, and can even aid in reducing plaque buildup.
Scientific Evidence Several studies support the efficacy of K12 in treating bad breath. A notable study published in the Journal of Applied Microbiology found that participants using K12 probiotics experienced a significant reduction in VSCs and reported improved breath freshness. Another study in the Journal of Clinical Periodontology demonstrated that K12 reduced the levels of harmful bacteria in the mouth, leading to better oral health outcomes.
How to Use K12 Probiotics K12 probiotics are available in various forms, including lozenges, chewable tablets, and oral rinses. For best results, incorporate K12 probiotics into your daily oral hygiene routine of brushing, flossing and scraping. Regular use can help maintain a healthy balance of oral bacteria, providing long-lasting relief from bad breath.
In conclusion, Streptococcus salivarius K12 offers a promising solution for those struggling with bad breath. By inhibiting harmful bacteria, reducing VSCs, and promoting overall oral health, K12 probiotics can help you achieve fresher breath and a healthier mouth.
Where to buy Readers in Singapore and Malaysia can order K12 oral probiotics from the Replenish the Good or Great Oral Health via Shopee
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