Assessment and evaluation of the effect of neem and mango mouthrinses on S. mutans count in vitro and in children

Abstract

IntroductionMouthrinses play an important role as adjuncts in the prevention of dental caries. In recent times, there has been an increase in the use of naturally occurring products. AimsTo determine the effect of extracts prepared using neem and mango twigs on Streptococcus mutans count in vitro and to assess the effect of mouthrinse prepared using the extracts on the salivary S. mutans count in children. Materials and MethodsThe Minimal Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) for neem and mango extracts on S. mutans were evaluated. The effective MICs were used to prepare the respective neem and mango mouthrinses which was given to 90 children, 8–13 years of age for a period of 21 days. The effectiveness of the prepared mouth rinses were compared to chlorhexidine in a three arm double blind randomised controlled trial. The salivary S. mutans count was assessed at baseline, 7th day and 21st day. ResultsThe MIC achieved was at 25 % concentrations with both the extracts. There was a statistically significant reduction in salivary S. mutans count in all the three study groups after 21 days. (P < 0.001) However there was no statistically significant difference between the groups. (p = 0.167) ConclusionsNeem and Mango mouthrinses could be used as an effective alternative to chlorhexidine in children.