Periodontitis refers to a wide range of the inflammatory conditions
of supporting dental structures. For some patients with
periodontitis, antibacterial agents are needed as an adjuvant
to mechanical debridement treatments and oral hygiene maintenance.
However, the widespread use of broad-spectrum antibiotics
for the prophylaxis and treatment of periodontal infections
results
in the emergence of resistant pathogens. Therefore,
probiotics have become markedly interesting to researchers
as a potentially safe alternative to periodontal treatment
and maintenance. Probiotics have been used in medicine for
decades and extensively applied to the treatment of inflammatory
diseases through the modulation of microbial synergy
and other mechanisms. A growing amount of evidence has
shown that using Lactobacillus strains for oral cavity maintenance
could improve periodontal health. In this study, we
reviewed studies showing proof of the inhibitory effects of
Lactobacillus species on periodontal inflammation. We also
explored the rationale and potential for using Lactobacillus
species in the management of periodontitis.