LAUSR

Abstract The development of probiotic formulations has attracted great attention of researchers and industrial community. Their beneficial effects have been demonstrated in human health, and in buccal cavity including prevention of gingivitis, periodontitis, dental caries, oral candidiasis, and immunomodulation. The development of mucoadhesive wafers as buccal systems is important to promote intimate contact between the probiotics and oral mucosa, as well as maintain the viability of anaerobic bacteria like Bifidobacterium bifidum BB12. The aim of this study was to develop wafers systems containing poloxamer 407, Carbopol 974P®, probiotic microorganisms Bifidobacterium bifidum BB12 for oral cavity administration. Two concentrations of microorganisms were incorporated to the polymer blends and freeze-dried. The morphological, enumeration of bacteria and mechanical properties of the wafers with and without probiotic bacteria were examined. The most concentrated formulation demonstrated more difficulties in freeze-drying process and lower enumeration of B. bacterium BB12. The wafers containing probiotic microorganisms (1:10) could be stored during 14 days with probiotic benefits. Their mechanical properties were suitable, because of improved cohesiveness, adhesion properties and firmness in comparison to formulations without probiotics. The wafers were suitable to carry probiotic microorganisms for 14 days and suitable mechanical properties for buccal application.