Immunological and periodontal benefits of prebiotic polydextrose in rats with induced periodontitis

Prebiotic therapy has emerged as a promising approach for treating periodontitis, an immunoinflammatory disease associated with a dysbiotic biofilm that leads to the loss of the supporting structures of the teeth. This is because prebiotics can positively influence the balance of bacteria in the body and the immune system's response. However, current understanding of its potential effects and mechanisms of action remains limited in periodontal therapy. The effects of the prebiotic polydextrose (PDX) on periodontal tissues remain unknown. The results of the present study show that the prebiotic PDX can minimize alveolar bone loss and improve bone microarchitecture through modulation of the immune-inflammatory response in both intestinal and periodontal tissues of rats with experimental periodontitis. Our findings suggest that the prebiotic PDX may represent a beneficial adjunctive strategy for managing periodontitis.