Unlike the gut microbiome, which has been the focus of intense research and product development for years, the oral microbiome – consisting of at least 774 species of bacteria, along with fungi, viruses, and protozoa – is just beginning to emerge as a significant area of interest, particularly regarding its impact on overall wellness, including cognitive function.
The mouth-gut axis
Studies have drawn a clear connection between oral health and systemic conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and even cognitive decline.
Notably, a study published earlier this month in the Journal of Nutrition, Health and Aging that used data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2011-2012 showed that greater diversity in the oral microbiome is associated with better cognitive function in older adults.
This suggests that maintaining a balanced oral microbiome could play a critical role in preserving brain health as we age, thereby opening new avenues for nutraceutical innovation.
The concept of the mouth-gut axis – where the health of the oral microbiome is interconnected with gut health – is also gaining traction. Products that combine oral probiotics with gut health benefits could appeal to consumers looking for holistic wellness solutions.
Biotic oral solutions
Probiotics and prebiotics, already well established in gut health, are now being formulated to benefit the oral microbiome. These ingredients are investigated for their potential to maintain or restore microbial balance in the mouth.
Research into specific strains of probiotics that are effective in the oral cavity is one promising avenue. Certain Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains have demonstrated potential in reducing harmful oral bacteria, suggesting that their inclusion in oral probiotics or synbiotics (a combination of prebiotics and probiotics) could support both oral and systemic health.
Gallinée Microbiome Skincare has a range of products that include prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics in its formulations. While its initial focus was on the skin microbiome, it recently launched a mouth and microbiome supplement, which it calls a “highly innovative suckable supplement to take on the go for effective, targeted mouth and teeth care” formulated for oral wellbeing.
As found on Mintel’s GNPD, Leli Peach Flavoured Probiotics Candy from China claims to have plant-derived probiotics, including the patented Lactobacillus plantarum KLDS1001. With at least eight billion colony-forming live bacteria per pack, the product is advertised as freshening and protecting oral health.
The development of personalised oral care products by companies like Viome is another early indicator of where the industry is headed. Viome’s MyBiotics Toothpaste and Gel, part of its Oral Health Solution system, uses data on an individual’s oral microbiome to create custom formulations.
Oral microbiome capsules
The US Food and Drug Administration’s approval of the first oral microbiome product in 2023, designed to prevent the recurrence of Clostridioides difficile infection, marks a significant milestone in this field and sets a precedent for future product approvals.
The approved live microbiome capsule, branded as Vowst and produced by Seres Therapeutics, contains purified Firmicutes spores. These beneficial spores are brought into the oral microbiome to outcompete and eliminate the harmful C. difficile bacteria.
Earlier this month, Nestlé Health Sciences, which had been working with Seres to market the product, acquired the Vowst business – underlining the product’s early success.
Moreno Perugini, president of medical nutrition and pharma at Nestlé Health Science, said: “Vowst is a first of its kind, and we have been extremely pleased with its success over the past 14 months.”
The market for oral microbiome-targeted nutraceuticals is still in its early stages, and consumer education will be crucial for driving adoption. While awareness of the gut microbiome is relatively high, the concept of the oral microbiome and its impact on overall health is less well known.
Companies will need to invest in educating consumers about the benefits of maintaining a balanced oral microbiome and how nutraceuticals can play a role in this.
