Bacteriostatic Effect of Cervitec Gel treatment

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to evaluate bacteristatic effect of Cervitec Gel (Ivoclar/Vivadent) paste in reducing the number of potentially cariogenic bacteria (Streptococci, Lactobacilli) in children. The aim was also to evaluate pH value and OHI after teeth were cleaned by using Cervitec Gel.Methods: The number of Streptococci and Lactobacilli, as well as pH value and OHI were evaluated prior and after Cervitec Gel treatment in 30 patients by using CRT for individual caries risk determination (Ivoclar/Vivadent). With respect to potentially cariogenic effect of Streptococci and Lactobacilli, children were regarded as having low (<10⁵) or high (≥10⁵) caries risk. In all children, pH value was rated as low, medium or high. Results: According to Wilcoxon test, a significant difference in the number of Streptococcus (p=0,002) and Lactobacillus (p=0,046) was found in both low and high caries-risk groups of children. In all children, a statistically significant improvement of pH measurements towards physiological values was observed with respect to Cervitec Gel treatment (p=0,046). However, no statistically significant difference in gender was observed related to Cervitec Gel treatment neither in the number of Streptococcus and Lactobacillus, or oral hygiene index. Conclusion: Cervitec Gel treatment significantly reduces the number of cariogenic bacteria in the mouth and stabilizes physiological pH value of saliva, which can be easily determined by using CRT tests in everyday clinical practice.