Antibacterial Effect of Azadirachta Indica (Neem Extract) and Antibacterial Effect of Azadirachta Indica (Neem Extract) and Chlorhexidine as Cavity Disinfectants in Primary Teeth in a Group Chlorhexidine as Cavity Disinfectants in Primary Teeth in a Group of Egyptian Children (A Randomized Clinical Trial)

Abstract

Introduction: The prevention and control of caries requires the eradication of cariogenic microorganisms that produce acids responsible for reducing the pH and starting the demineralization process. With the increasing incidence of drug resistance in the prevalent pathogens and an associated risk with chemotherapeutic agents, it is essential to find an alternative to existing drugs. Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of neem extract and 2% chlorhexidine (CHX) as cavity disinfectants in the reduction of total viable count in Atraumatic Restorative Treatment (ART) in children. Subjects and Methods: The study included two test groups, Group I (2% chlorhexidine) and Group II (neem extract). Nine patients with at least one tooth with a carious lesion suitable for ART were selected for each group; samples of dentin were collected using sterile spoon excavators at three stages from each tooth: pre-excavation, post-excavation and post-disinfection of the cavities. These dentinal samples were subjected to microbiological analysis for Total Viable Count (TVC). The data collected were statistically analysed using ANOVA and Shapiro-Wilk tests. Results: The results of present study showed that there was a statistically significant reduction in TVC when compared between pre and post excavation in both groups. Conclusion: Natural antibacterial agents like neem could be effectively used as cavity disinfectant which will help in minimizing secondary caries and rendering a long term restorative success