Evaluation of antibacterial efficacy of Triphala toothwipes on oral Streptococcus mutans count in intellectually disabled children.

Abstract

To evaluate antibacterial efficacy of Triphala toothwipes on oral Streptococcus mutans counts in intellectually disabled (ID) children. Twenty-seven children with a mild ID were randomly divided into two groups: A - Triphala and B - placebo group. Toothwipes were given to caregivers of children belonging to the respective groups, and were instructed to use them 1h after their meals, twice a day for 7days. Simplified Plaque index was recorded and plaque samples were collected for microbiological examination at baseline, 48h, and 7days. The obtained data were tabulated and analyzed. Triphala group showed a statistically significant reduction of S. mutans after 48h and 7days. Both Triphala and placebo groups showed a statistically significant reduction in dental plaque after 48h and 7days. Triphala toothwipes are effective against the oral S. mutans compared with placebo toothwipes, while both the toothwipes are equally effective in reducing dental plaque. Thus, Triphala toothwipes can be used as an adjunct aid along with routine oral hygiene practices in individuals who lack psychomotor skills or are dependent on others to maintain oral hygiene, including infants, preschoolers, geriatric population, and children with special health care needs.