Probiotics to reduce microbiota-related dental stains: A potential approach

Adult extrinsic black stains on teeth, caused by bacterial colonization, impact aesthetics and confidence. Conventional treatments can be abrasive and have a high recurrence rate. This pilot case study explores probiotics as an adjunctive approach. Direct application of probiotic powder over the black stains of the teeth was carried out prior to routine home care. Results showed black stain removal was possible with tooth brush and dental floss. Saliva and biofilm samples were analyzed via 16S rRNA sequencing. Microbiome revealed a noticeable reduction in <i>Corynebacterium</i>, a key black stain-associated bacterium, with slight shifts in major phyla like <i>Actinobacteriota</i> and <i>Firmicutes</i>. This case study aimed to evaluate the potential of probiotics in reducing black stains on teeth and assess the associated microbiome changes.