Effect of Continuous Intake of Lactobacillus salivarius WB21 on Tissues Surrounding Implants: A Double-Blind Randomized Clinical Trial.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to improve the health of peri-implant tissues through continuous intake of Lactobacillus salivarius WB21 (LSWB21) tablets.

METHODS

A double-blind, randomized controlled trial was conducted with 23 maintenance patients who had generally healthy oral peri-implant tissues. Participants were divided into a test group (n = 12) receiving LSWB21 tablets and a control group (n = 11) receiving placebos. All patients took one tablet three times daily for 2 months. Evaluation measures included modified Gingival Index (mGI), modified Plaque Index (mPI), modified Bleeding Index (mBI), salivary secretory IgA, and oral symptoms assessed at baseline, 1 month, and 2 months.

RESULTS

After 2 months, significant improvements in the mGI, mPI, and mBI were observed in the test group; significant improvement in the mPI was observed in the control group. Changes in the mGI over 2 months significantly differed between the groups (p = 0.038), and multiple regression analysis confirmed the effectiveness of LSWB21 in reducing the mGI (p = 0.034). Subjective symptoms such as bad breath in the test group and tongue symptoms in the control group also significantly improved.

CONCLUSION

Continuous intake of LSWB21 may be beneficial for stabilizing peri-implant tissue.

TRIAL REGISTRATION: UMIN000039392 (UMIN-CTR).