Effect of Cymbopogon citratus Oil Formulations on Mutans Streptococci Biofilm

Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the susceptibility of Streptococcus mutans (ATCC 25175), Streptococcus sobrinus (ATCC 6715) and biofilm formation to three Cymbopogon citratus oil formulations
Methods: All strains were incubated for 3 and 6 h to form biofilm for susceptibility test. And to evaluate the effect of each oil formations on growth and biofilm formation using 96 well-polystyrene plates biofilm assay.
Results: Results showed that 3 and 6 h preformed S. mutans (ATCC 25175) and S. sobrinus (ATCC 6715) biofilm were sensitive to all oil formulations (>99.9%) when compared to the controls. Biofilm formation of S. mutans (ATCC 25175) and S. sobrinus (ATCC 6715) were inhibited (>95%) when compared to the controls by all Cymbopogon citratus oil formulations at different concentrations. Six percent Cymbopogon citratus oil formulations showed maximum inhibition effect followed by 4% and 2%, respectively.
Conclusions: Thus Cymbopogon citratus essential oils might be an alternative, inexpensive natural medication to prevent dental caries.