Effect of medicated toothpastes and Tooth Mousse on cariogenic microbes of the oral cavity: An in vitro study

Background: Dental caries, commonly known as tooth decay is a widespread oral health problem mainly attributed to the activity of cariogenic bacteria, such as Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus species. Tooth Mousse, containing remineralizing agents, herbal and fluoride containing toothpaste with antimicrobial agents have been developed to target cariogenic bacteria. Herbal, fluoride toothpaste, and Tooth Mousse are commonly prescribed to prevent, reduce, and control dental caries. Aim: This study aims to analyze the effect of Tooth Mousse and medicated toothpastes on S. mutans and Lactobacillus acidophilus using direct contact test. Methodology: L. acidophilus and S. mutans were cultured on Mueller–Hinton agar (MHA-Hi media) using sterile cotton swabs and plates were dried for 15 min. Toothpastes (Dabur Red, Pepsodent) and Tooth Mousse were used at 1:1 dilution using sterile pyrogen-free distilled water. Fifty microliter of toothpastes and Tooth Mousse were introduced into each well. The plates were incubated at 37°C for 24 h. Results and Discussion: The antimicrobial activity was evaluated by measuring the diameter of zones of inhibition (mm). The toothpaste containing fluoride (A) showed greater zone of inhibition compared to herbal toothpaste (B) whereas Tooth Mousse (C) did not show any zone of inhibition. Conclusion: Among herbal and fluoride toothpaste, fluoride containing toothpaste showed more zone of inhibition thereby attributing to its increased antimicrobial property on S. mutans and L. acidophilus.