Remineralization and Antibacterial efficacy of Ashwagandha, Maca and Ginger-based mouthwashes versus Fluoride-based mouthwash on initial enamel caries: An in-vitro study

Abstract

Purpose: Non-invasive management of non-cavitated caries lesions by the medicinal use of plant extracts is the goal of modern dentistry; this study was accomplished to assess the remineralizing and antibacterial potential of some herbals (Ashwagandha, Maca, and Ginger) in comparison to Fluoride-based mouthwash on initial enamel carious lesions. Materials and Methods: In this study, fifty extracted premolars were allocated evenly into five groups of 10 teeth each. Group A: teeth treated with 0.5% Ashwagandha-based mouthwash (n=10); Group M: teeth treated with 0.5% Maca-based mouthwash (n=10); Group G: teeth treated with 0.5% Ginger-based mouthwash (n=10); Group F: teeth treated with Fluoride-based mouthwash as a positive control group (n=10); and Group C; negative control group: teeth not exposed to any treatment and stored in artificial saliva. All teeth were evaluated using the DIAGNOdent pen® at baseline, after demineralization, and after 14 days with different remineralizing materials. The antimicrobial properties of fluoride and plant extracts against Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus acidophilus were quantitatively evaluated by an antimicrobial susceptibility test. The data were statistically analyzed using an ANOVA test. Results: All experimental treated groups confirmed a reduction in DIAGNOdent pen® values. Group G showed the most significant decrease (-8.3±2.16), followed by Group M (-7.3±0.82), and Group A (-7.3±1.25), then Group F (-6.5±0.53). The lowest reduction was observed in the control group (-3.60.97). The distinction between groups was statistically significant (p=0.000). All used mouthwashes had antibacterial properties against Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus acidophilus bacteria, with no statistically significant difference. Conclusion: Herbalbased-mouthwashes of 0.5 % Ashwagandha, Maca, and Ginger are effective remineralizing agents on initial enamel carious lesions with antimicrobial activity against Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus acidophilus.