Comparison of Antimicrobial Efficacy of (between) 0.2% Chlorhexidine and Herbal Mouthwash on Salivary Streptococcus mutans: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Study.

Abstract

Background:The chemomechanical plaque control measures are helpful in controlling dental plaque and thus caries, especially in pediatric age group.Aim:This study aims to compare effectiveness of herbal mouthrinse containing Terminalia chebula to that of 0.2% chlorhexidine against children's salivary mutans streptococci levels.Settings and Design:A double-blind, randomized, controlled study design will be framed for conducting this study.Methods:A total of 45 participants were randomly categorized in Group 1, Group 2, or Group 3 (control group, experimental group, or negative control). Baseline unstimulated saliva was collected. All the participants were instructed regarding the use of mouthrinse for 2 weeks. After 2 weeks, again unstimulated saliva was collected. After collection, saliva samples were sent for microbiological analysis.Statistical Analysis:The mean colony-forming units (CFU/ml) were determined. Paired t-test, ANOVA test, and post hoc test were applied for statistical analysis.Results:Statistically significant difference in CFU count has been observed in 0.2% chlorhexidine and Oratreat groups at 15 days as compared to baseline (P < 0.001). At 15 days, reduction in CFU count has seen more in Oratreat group as compared to 0.2% chlorhexidine group, and the difference is statistically significant (P < 0.001).Conclusion:0.2% chlorhexidine and Oratreat mouthwash reduce the salivary Streptococcus mutans count. Oratreat herbal mouthwash has proved to be better as compared to 0.2% chlorhexidine mouthwash.