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Background: Chlorhexidine mouth wash has been used for decades, however, it remains contraindicated in children and teenagers. On the other hand, the anti-microbial properties of plant derived compounds are well documented. Aim: To compare, in vivo the efficacy and effectiveness of aqueous fruit extract of Terminalia chebula and Chlorhexidine oral rinse as an anti caries agent in children. Materials and Methods: 30 children in the age groups of 13 -19 years were randomly selected for the study. The efficacy of the two agents (Terminalia Chebula and Chlorhexidine) as anti caries agents was assessed by evaluating the salivary pH and the salivary buffering capacity. The values obtained were subjected to statistical analysis. Results: A percentage improvement in buffering capacity was noted with Terminalia chebula when compared to Chlorhexidine mouthwash which indicated potential long term effects. The pH of both Terminalia chebula and Chlorhexidine did not show any significant difference. Conclusion: Terminalia chebula can suitably be used as an anti-carious oral rinse and does not have any side effects such as erosion and staining.

Aim: This study was done to evaluate correlation of Dental Caries status with frequency of tooth brushing, type of toothpaste and regular dental visits in children. Materials and methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out randomly on 2500 school children of two age groups viz. 12 and 15 years, and caries examination was done using WHO (World Health organization) 1997 criteria in order to correlate with various risk factors viz. brushing frequency, use of fluoridated/non-fluoridated toothpaste and frequency of child's visit to dental clinic. Results: In both the age groups brushing frequency and type of toothpaste used insignificantly affected caries while evidence that frequency of child's visit to dental clinic reduces caries risk was also not substantial. Conclusion: The present study implicates that due to complex multifactorial nature of dental caries, its prevention still remains an enigma for the dental professional and society.

Saliva as a diagnostic tool provides a simple, inexpensive and noninvasive tool for disease detection and screening. Saliva collection is more practical, comfortable and is highly desirable body fluid for biomarker detection in clinical applications. The role of saliva as a successful adjunct to the diagnostic parameters in various diseases and pathologies have been well documented.The article reviews the significance of various salivary markers in the diagnosis and clinical application.