The exact aetiology of periodontitis is unknown but it is believed to result from an infection by a select group of Gram-negative anaerobic bacteria found in dental plaque. However in order for the periodontal pocket to be populated by these suspected periodontopathogens, they require that the local environment be primed for their colonization. This favourable environment results from a series of progressive colonizations by prior groups of bacteria, the process being termed bacterial succession. Essential to bacterial succession is the initial colonization of the tooth surface by bacteria termed “the primary plaque colonizers”. These are assumed to be the first species in biofilm formation. Elimination of these species might therefore be beneficial to prevent bacterial succession and later colonization by the suspected periodontopathogens. Aim: To determine whether there was any significant difference in the antimicrobial activity of 4 herbal toothpastes against cultures of 3 primary plaque colonizers (Streptococcus mutans, Streptococcus sanguinis and a non-specific α-heamolytic streptococcus). Method: The study was a laboratory based experiment that used in-vitro diffusion to assess the antimicrobial potential of the various toothpastes. Forty eight cultures were produced and grown overnight in a temperature controlled room. The various zones of inhibition formed around the test toothpastes were then measured after 24hrs of incubation and compared to each other. Results: Of the four toothpastes tested, Dentazyme Herbal® showed the greatest ability to inhibit bacterial growth. It was stronger than Colgate Total® (the positive control) for 2 of the 3 species of bacteria tested. Nature Fresh® had the lowest potential for antimicrobial activity and only displayed a moderated inhibitory affect for one of the bacterial species tested. Conclusion: The results indicate that there was a significant difference in the ability of the various toothpastes to inhibit the growth of certain bacteria.
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