Estimation of salivary pH and viability of Streptococcus mutans on chewing of Tulsi leaves in children.

Background: The current concepts of dental caries focus on cariogenic bacteria such as Streptococcus mutans fermenting carbohydrates to form organic acids, which cause a drop in pH, resulting in demineralization of the tooth surface.[l] Studies show that Tulsi has broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity.[2] Hence, this study aimed at estimating the change in salivary pH and viability of S. mutans on chewing of Tulsi leaves, in children.

Aims: This study aimed to estimate the change in salivary pH and viability of S. mutans on chewing of Tulsi leaves.

Materials and Methods: The study was carried out on thirty children aged 9-12 years. Oral prophylaxis was performed prior to sample collection. Three samples were collected per child, one before and two after chewing of Tulsi leaves. The change in salivary pH and viability of S. mutans was assessed.

Statistical Analysis: The obtained data were analyzed using Friedman test and Wilcoxon's test. The level of significance was set at P < 0.05.

Results: The results obtained showed no significant difference in the pH values obtained from the samples, but there was a significant difference in the S. mutans' colony counts.

Conclusion: Based on the results obtained from this study, it may be concluded that Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum) has the potential to be developed into an antimicrobial agent against cariogenic bacteria, specifically S. mutans.