Anticariogenic Effect of Moringa Oleifera Mouthwash Compared to Chlorhexidine Mouthwash

Moringa oleifera (MO) is an extraordinary nutritious vegetable tree with high medicinal value for its antibacterial properties. Formulation of various natural dental remedies from this plant and their testing for their effectiveness might yield promising antibacterial, antiplaque and anticariogenic agents with minimal side effects. Aim of the study: Part I: The aim of this in-vitro part of the study is to formulate a nontoxic mouthwash from MO leaves extract, having antimicrobial activity, to be used in part II of the study. Furthermore, stability and efficacy of the developed mouth wash will be evaluated. Part II: The aim of this randomized controlled trial is to evaluate the antibacterial, antiplaque and anticariogenic effect of MO mouthwash compared to chlorhexidine mouthwash.

Inclusion Criteria: * Systemically free as reported by the patients * Minimum of 20 teeth present in the dentition (excluding wisdom teeth); * Clinically healthy gingiva (on intact periodontium) * Dental biofilm-induced gingivitis (plaque induced gingivitis) according to the criteria set by the American Academy of Periodontology for classification of periodontal diseases and conditions in 2017 * Moderate to high caries risk patients Exclusion Criteria: * Patients with periodontitis or requiring other immediate dental treatments (within the current 6 months) * Subjects on antibiotics within last 6 months * Periodontal therapy for the past 6 months * Pregnant women and lactating mothers * Medically compromised patients * Subjects with tobacco consumption in any form * Subjects wearing partial dentures or having clinically unacceptable restorations or bridges * Subjects wearing orthodontic appliances * History of allergy to chemical or any herbal products