The role and potential mechanisms of prebiotics in periodontitis treatment: a review

Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease induced by microbial plaque. Traditional mechanical and pharmacological therapeutic techniques have limitations. In recent years, prebiotics have received significant attention because they benefit the human body in various ways, and their potential application in periodontitis has been investigated. In this review, we summarized current experimental and clinical research progress on prebiotic treatments for periodontitis, focusing on their efficacy in improving periodontal clinical indicators and reducing the level of inflammation. Moreover, considering the etiology of periodontitis and its relationship with other systemic organs, this review assessed potential mechanisms of prebiotic therapeutic effects, including the regulation of microbiome balance. Although the optimal dosage, combinations, methods of administration, and long-term safety of different prebiotic types require further validation, existing evidence provides a solid theoretical foundation for their application as adjunctive interventions in periodontitis. These findings suggest that prebiotics are a promising strategy for the treatment of periodontitis Graphical abstract • Core causes of periodontitis: plaque, inflammation, and immune factors. • Oxidative stress and metabolic disorder also exacerbate periodontal tissue destruction. • Prebiotics demonstrate clear therapeutic efficacy in treating periodontitis. • Prebiotic treatment for periodontitis involves multiple potential mechanisms. • Appropriate combinations of synbiotics and improved administration methods will further enhance therapeutic efficacy.