Evaluating the Impact of Kefir Consumption on Dental Caries and Periodontal Disease: A Narrative Review.

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Dental caries and periodontal diseases are the most common illnesses in the oral cavity and represent a public health concern globally. In recent decades, diverse studies showed that Kefir, a traditional beverage that can be milk- or water-based, contains a complex microbial community and has health benefits. The goal of this review was to update the current knowledge of kefir consumption and its impact on oral health. Methods: The search of a combination of keywords-kefir; dental caries; probiotics; microbiota; periodontal diseases; biofilm; and oral health-was conducted using PubMed, Google Scholar, and Web of Science databases for studies in human subjects. Discussion: The research suggests that kefir consumption may aid in decreasing counts of microorganisms typically associated with oral illness. Conclusions: Kefir has the potential to inhibit certain oral pathogens and reduce biofilm formation by promoting diversity within the oral microbiota, suggesting that kefir could be a promising adjuvant treatment for dental caries and periodontal diseases by improving oral health.