The term “probiotic” was first used in 1965 by Lilly and Stillwell, to describe substances secreted by one organism which stimulate
the growth of another. FAO (Food and Agriculture Organisation) and the WHO defined probiotics as “live micro-organisms”, which,
when administered in adequate amounts confer a health benefit on the host. Probiotics utilise naturally occurring bacteria to
confer a health benefit when administered in adequate amounts. Most of the probiotics are products of two groups of bacteria,
lactobacillus or bifidobacterium. Probiotics have been extensively studied for their health promoting effects. During the last decade
they have also been studied for their role in promoting oral health. Even though these studies are yielding positive results, they
need to be further evaluated and more studies need to be conducted.