Antimicrobial Activity of Propolis in Dentifrice on Mutans Streptococci

Propolis is often known as a "natural antibiotic". Several studies in various countries have shown an inhibitory effect on a variety of microorganisms. In the past study it had been proven that Ethanolic Extract of Propolis (EEP) with concentration of 62.5µg/ml has antimicrobial activity against local strains of Streptococcus mutans isolated from human harbouring species and standard strains of S. mutans KPSK2, S. mutans Ing Britt and Streptococcus sobrinus B13. Objective: The aim of the study was to determine the sensitivity of dentifrice containing Propolis on species of S. mutans. Methods: Dentifrice containing Propolis was examined in vitro to inhibit the bacterial growth by measuring the inhibition zone (agar diffusion method), minimum inhibition concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC). The microorganisms tested were; S. mutans Ing-Britt, S. mutans LM7, S. mutans KPSK2, S. mutans JC2 and S. sobrinus B13. Results: The MIC value 0.001ml, average of inhibition zone 1.80mm for S. mutans Ing Britt; the MIC value 0.001ml, average of inhibition zone 1.50mm for S. mutans LM7; The MIC value 0.001ml, average of inhibition zone 2.00mm for S. mutans KPSK2; the MIC value 0.001ml, average of inhibition zone 2.10mm for S. mutans JC2; the MIC value 0.001ml, average of inhibition zone 1.90mm for S. sobrinus B13; and their MBC values were three times more than the MIC values. Conclusion: Dentifrice containing Propolis has anti microbial activity against S. mutans Ing-Britt, S. mutans LM7, S. mutans KPSK2, S. mutans JC2 and S. sobrinus B13. It can be used to anticipate caries risk in the future.