Objective: To evaluate the clinical efficacy of a mouthwash containing Punica granatum L as compared to 0.12% chlorhexidine digluconate on the control of dental biofilm and gingival inflammation. Material and Methods: A randomized, controlled, double-blind clinical trial was carried out comprising a sample of 35 students aged nine to twelve years having Simplified Oral Hygiene Index value equal to or higher than 1.6, with at least 20 teeth. The sample was divided into two groups: group A, administration of 0.12% chlorhexidine mouthwash twice a day for 14 days; and group B, administration of Punica granatum mouthwash (6.25%) following the same protocol described above. The Plaque Index (PI) and Bleeding on Probing Index (BPI) were used to evaluate biofilm control and gingival inflammation on days 0, 7 and 14. Counting of oral streptococci from saliva samples was also performed on days 0 and 14. The data were analyzed using Student"s t test and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). Results: The findings showed that P. granatum mouthwash reduced the mean values of PI and BPI, but with no significant difference. However, there was a significant reduction in the counting of oral streptococci. In the control group, all variables were found to be significantly reduced. Conclusion: Punica granatum mouthwash was not effective for the control of dental biofilm and gingival inflammation, but it was effective in reducing the counting of oral streptococci.

No abstract

No abstract

Dental caries and periodontal disease are the most prevalent of the biofilmdependent diseases. With numerous side effects on the use of chlorhexidine, the search for new safe therapeutic alternatives for microorganisms involved with these diseases increases every day. This study aimed to evaluate the antimicrobial activity and cytotoxicity of extracts made from the bark of Schinopsis brasiliensis Engl. against five oral microorganisms and analyze their phytochemical and thermal degradation profile. The liquid-liquid partition was performed with hexane, chloroform and ethyl acetate. The identification and quantification of the chemical marker was done. Antimicrobial activity was evaluated based on the minimum inhibitory concentration. The cytotoxicity was analyzed based on the hemolysing potential of the samples. The thermal degradation profile was performed by two different methods. Gallic acid was identified as the main compound of the samples and showed the highest amount in the chloroform fraction. All samples were able to inhibit the growth of the microorganisms tested and showed no cytotoxicity. The ethanol extract absorbs less heat than the fractions. All samples exhibited exothermic peak consistent with degradation of gallic acid. Based on the results, the samples used are potential candidates for use in dental formulations for biofilm control.

No abstract