INTRODUCTION: Streptococcus mutans is considered to be the most cariogenic microorganism. However, candida albicans has also been isolated from dental plaque of high caries risk children. Therefore, uses of natural antimicrobial agents such as propolis have been established as an adjunctive approach for oral health care.
OBJECTIVES: the aim of this study was to evaluate the antibacterial and antifungal effects of propolis chewing gum compared to propolis mouthwash.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixty high caries risk children aged 6 to 8 were randomly assigned into two groups. Group I received propolis chewing gum and Group II received propolis mouthwash. A baseline and final plaque samples were obtained from each participant before and after intervention respectively within 14 days interval. All participants were asked to refrain from eating or brushing on the sampling days. Samples were sent immediately to the laboratory for microbial assessment.
RESULTS: data revealed that both study groups showed significant differences (P≤0.001) in streptococcus mutans and candida albicans counts before and after intervention. But there was no significant difference among the comparative groups.
CONCLUSION: It was demonstrated that propolis chewing gum and propolis mouthwash can be used as antimicrobial agents.