Effect of Lubanum and Potash Alum on Co-aggregation and Biofilm Formation of Porphyromonas gingivalis, Treponema denticola and Tannerella forsythia

Abstract

Porphyromonas gingivalis, Treponema denticola, and Tannerella forsythia can co- aggregate in a more stable and resistant multispecies biofilm. Therefore, the current study aimed to test the effectiveness of lubanum and potash alum solutions, as a natural rinse, to affect the attachment between the cells and the multispecies biofilm of these periodontitis pathogens, and also to enhance the action of the chemical rinse, BioFresh K (chlorhexidine (CHX)). The results revealed that the solutions of 12 mg/ ml of both natural substances can prevent bacterial co- aggregation, and the solutions of 40 mg/ ml of natural substances and 1.2 mg/ml of CHX can affect the cells in their polymicrobial population after 1hr exposure. The results also revealed that increasing the concentration of lubanum made it possible to affect the resistant preformed multispecies biofilm and the effect became more maxima when it was used in combination with other agents. This combination is benefit in controlling the chronic periodontitis caused by these pathogens as it can reinforce the effect of antibacterial agents on multispecies biofilm and prevent the attachment of new cells without the need of increasing the concentration or combination between chemical therapies.