Comparative Evaluation of Anti-Microbial Property of 5% Propolis Mouth rinse with 0.12% Chlorhexidine Mouth rinse on Streptococcus Mutans Count among 8–10-Year-Old Children

Abstract

Background: Dental caries is maybe the most well-known oral infection of the dental hard tissue affecting all individuals young and old. Caries susceptibility in general is much higher during childhood. The condition is a transmissible and the microorganism, Streptococcus mutans is generally implicated as the principal etiological factor. Propolis is a naturally occurring resin like substance produced by honeybees. Flavonoids, phenolics and various other aromatic compounds form its composition.

Aim: To evaluate and compare the anti-microbial effect of 5% Propolis mouth rinse and 0.12% Chlorhexidine mouthwash on S. mutans count in saliva among 8–10-year-old children.

Methodology: Sixty subjects aged 8 to 10 years were included from a school in Visnagar, Gujrat. These students were distributed into 3 equal groups (n=20) which were designated as 2 experimental groups and a control group.  All students were trained to rinse with 3ml mouth rinse for 1 minute, two times a day, for 7 days under their guardian’s supervision. Salivary samples were collected before using the mouthwash, after 1 hour, after 5 hour and after 7 days of use and cultured on M.S.B agar. The numbers of streptococcus mutans colonies were counted on agar medium using Digital colony counter.

Results: Both mouth rinses were highly effective in terms of reduction in S. mutans count. Inter group comparison showed both mouth rinses were equally efficacious in terms of reduction of S. mutans count.

Conclusion: Propolis Mouth wash has definite anti-microbial effect against S. mutans and can be considered as useful substitute to Chlorhexidine as an adjunct to prevent dental caries.