Effect of probiotic delivery vehicles for probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus SD11 in caries prevention: A clinical study

This study aimed to compare the effect of two delivery vehicles for probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus SD11 in the form of fermented milk and milk powder for prevention of dental caries. In total, 201 children were randomly assigned to receive milk powder or fermented milk, and either the probiotic or control groups. Salivary counts of Streptococcus mutans and lactobacilli were examined at the baseline, 3, 6, and 9 months using the real-time PCR. The oral examination was recorded at the baseline and 9 months. Results demonstrated that a reduction in S. mutans was observed in both probiotic groups compared to their controls (p < .001). The increment of newly developed caries lesions was significantly lower in the probiotic groups than in controls. In conclusion, the dairy products (milk powder and fermented milk) containing L. rhamnosus SD11 provide a similar effect on prevention of caries risk regarding reducing cariogenic S. mutans. Practical applications Our previous study revealed Lactobacillus rhamnosus SD11 in fermented milk could reduce cariogenic bacteria. It was hypothesized that different vehicles for probiotic delivery of even the same probiotic strain may give different results in caries prevention. Results showed that either milk powder or fermented milk containing probiotic could significantly reduce both salivary cariogenic Streptococcus mutans and newly developed caries lesions. It indicates that the dairy products, either milk powder or fermented milk, containing L. rhamnosus SD11 provide a similar effect on prevention of the caries risk. The advantage of milk powder over fermented milk includes longer shelf-life, easier storage, and easier handling and transportation.