Efficacy Of The Extract Of Chewing Stick On The Agents Of Dental Carries Isolate
The efficacy of chewing stick extract on the agents of dental caries isolate presents a promising avenue for natural dental care. Chewing sticks, derived from various plant sources, have demonstrated potent antibacterial properties against cariogenic microorganisms, thereby inhibiting their growth and potentially preventing dental caries formation. Studies have shown that these extracts contain bioactive compounds such as tannins, flavonoids, and alkaloids, which exert antimicrobial effects against common cariogenic bacteria like Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus species. Moreover, the use of chewing sticks promotes oral hygiene by stimulating saliva production, which aids in the remineralization of tooth enamel and the removal of food debris and plaque. This natural approach to dental care not only targets caries-causing bacteria but also offers additional benefits such as improved gum health and fresher breath. Further research into the specific mechanisms of action and long-term effects of chewing stick extract on dental caries prevention is warranted to fully harness its potential as a sustainable and effective alternative to conventional oral hygiene products.
The bacterial isolate from the teeth was determined by using standard microbiological method. About 0.1ml Aliguot of the 10-2 dilution was aseptically sampled in bacteriological media. The result obtained shows that the bacteriological level detected in the various teeth ranged from 40.0 x10-1, 60.0 x10-1,41.0×10-1, 18.0 X 10-1, 20.0 X 10-1, 15.0 x 10-1, 20.0 x 10-1. The organism isolated were gram positive rod and gram positive cocci. The antimicrobial activity of chewing stick was performed from isolates gotten from the teeth. The organisms included are gram positive cocci and gram positive rod, decoction method was used for the extraction of the active compounds from the plant. The result revealed that the chewing stick showed activity against gram positive rod at the concentration of 62.5mg/ml with the zone of inhibition of 7mm and 5mm. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC mg/ml) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC mg/m) was determined to show that the extract exhibited the growth of the test organism with the MIC between 62.5mg/ml.
Title page i
Certification ii
Dedication iii
Acknowledgment iv
Abstract v
Table of content vi
CHAPTER ONE
1.0 Introduction 1
CHAPTER TWO
2.0 Literature Review 5
2.1 Plants commonly used as chewing sticks 6
2.2 Mechanism of Action 7
2.3 Effect of Dental Plaque 9
2.4 Effect on Periodontal health 12
2.5 Antibacterial Activity 13
2.6 Cytotoxic Effects 14
CHAPTER THREE
3.0 Materials and Methods 17
3.1 Collection of plant Material 18
3.2 Methodology 18
3.3 Extraction Procedures of Chewing Stick 19
3.4 Preparation of Medium 19
3.4.1 Preparation of Nutrient Agar 19
3.4.2 Preparation of Muller Hilton Agar 19
3.5 Sterilization of Media and Glasses 19
3.5.2 Preparation of paper Disc 19
3.6 Determination of Zones of Inhibition 20
3.6.1 Minimum Inhibitor Concentration Tests (MIC) 20
3.7 Minimum Bactericidal Concentration Test (MBC) 20
3.8 Grams staining techniques 20
CHAPTER FOUR
4.0 Result and discussion 22
4.1 Discussion 25
CHAPTER FIVE
5.0 Conclusion and Recommendation 27
5.1 Conclusion 27
5.2 Recommendations 27
References 28
INTRODUCTION
The use of chewing sticks has been documented since ancient times. This kind of tooth brushing has been used by the Babylonians some 7000 years ago (Enwonwu et al, 2002) in many traditional cultures, there are no plastic-bristle brushes, rather, the use of herbal chewing sticks for rehiring dental problems is common. The cleansing efficacy of chewing sticks is attributed to the mechanical effects of its fibres release of beneficial chemicals or a combination of both (EL. Said et al, 1976). Some African chewing sticks are also reported to contain fluoridations, silicon, tannic acid, sodium bicarbonate and other natural plague inhibiting substances that can reduce bacterial colonization and plague formation (Pathol 1997).
Tannin exerts an astringent effect on the action of glucosyltransferase thus reducing the clinically detectable gingivitis. Tannins also inhibit the action of glucosyltransferase this reducing plague and gingivitis (Almas & Allafl 1995). Resumes forms a layer over the enamel and this protects against caries. Alkaloids exert bactericidal effect in the oral cavity (Gerrit 1993) Essential (volatile) oils possess characteristic normal and exert antiseptic action (Almas East 1993). They would have their East sulphur compounds have a bactericidal action (Aklitar M.S. 1981). Vitamin C is antioxidant and helps in the repair of tissues. Sodium bicarbonate has abrasive properties and is, thus, used as dentifrice in addition to having a mold germicidal action (Hardy J. 2003). The high concentrations of chloride inhibit calculus formation (Darout .A. 2000) and help in the rerouting of stains from the teeth (Almas East 2003) saturation of saliva, which inhibits demineralization and promotes remineralization of tooth enamel.
A great number of these plant species have related medicinal properties that may be antibacterial D. benthamianusis rich in flavonoid compound (Ghawla, 1983) such as oxyayain A, oxyayain B, Ayanin and Distemonantin. These components have been implicated in anti-tumor activity, antioxidative activity (Rubola & Tanaka, 1993), antiarenergic activity and treatment of bacteria, fungi and viral (Chawla, 1983). Anogeissuleicarpus is also another plant species used in traditional medicine as a remedy for many ailments of livestock and man, which include helminthosis, schistomiasis, leprosy, diarrhea and psoriasis (El Mostehy and Dorner WG, 1981). In addition to these applications, Hollist (19) reported that A. Leiocarpusis one of the major plants commonly used as chewing stick in Nigeria. Fagarazanthoxyloides is also widely distributed in Africa countries. The root-back extract is used in treating elephantiasis, toothache, sexual impotence, gonorrhea malaria, dysmenorrhoea and abdominal (George et al ,1985). Many studies have demonstrated the antimicrobial, anticarries, anti-therapeutic and antifungal properties of both aqueous and ethanolic extracts of various chewing stick.(Mohammed A, Turner JE,1983). There are documented reports on the antimicrobial activity of a Leicarpuson oral-microflora. (kubotak et al 1988) reported the antimicrobial effects of its root extract on Staphylococcus aureus and pseudomonas aeroginosa (Al Lafit, Ababreh H 1995). Workers in west Africa have also reported the anti-sickling and antimicrobial activity of the extracts of fagarazanthoxyloides (Hattab FN, miswak,1997). Water extracts from the plant showed activities against bacteria significant to periodontal disease (Hardy j& Ezirmly,1997).The antimicrobial activity of the methanolic extract of the root bark of F. zanthoxyloides was also reported (Ndungu et al,1990) and it is a very popular anthelmintic amongst the various tubes in Uganda. It has also been found that the alchoholic extracts of the root-bark possesses considerable antibacterial (Acta odontal,scand 1989). An anti-sickling agent (AL-Otaibi 2003) and anti-inflammatory amide were isolated from the plant. Therefore, this paper examines the inhibitory activity of some selected Nigerian chewing stick extracts against selected and clinical isolates of candida species.
The use of chewing sticks, also known as miswak or siwak, as a traditional oral hygiene tool has been documented in various cultures for centuries. Chewing sticks are typically twigs or roots from specific plants, such as Salvadora persica (the toothbrush tree) or other local flora, that people chew on to clean their teeth and gums. These sticks are believed to have potential oral health benefits, including the prevention of dental caries (tooth decay) and the inhibition of oral bacteria.
Several studies and research have investigated the efficacy of chewing sticks in preventing dental caries and their impact on oral microbial agents. Here are some key findings and considerations:
Antibacterial Properties: Chewing sticks have been found to possess natural antibacterial properties due to the presence of bioactive compounds. Some studies suggest that these compounds can inhibit the growth of bacteria responsible for dental caries, such as Streptococcus mutans. This antibacterial action may contribute to the prevention of tooth decay.
Plaque Reduction: Chewing sticks can help reduce the formation of dental plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that contributes to the development of cavities and gum disease. Regular use of chewing sticks may aid in maintaining oral hygiene and reducing plaque buildup.
Gum Health: Chewing sticks may have a positive impact on gum health by reducing inflammation and promoting healthier gum tissues. Healthy gums are essential for preventing dental caries as they provide a protective barrier around teeth.
Fluoride Content: Some chewing sticks, such as Salvadora persica, contain natural sources of fluoride. Fluoride is known for its role in strengthening tooth enamel and preventing tooth decay.
Cultural Practices: The use of chewing sticks is deeply ingrained in the cultures where they are traditionally employed. Oral health practices often encompass not only mechanical cleaning but also cultural behaviors that can contribute to overall oral health.
While chewing sticks have demonstrated potential benefits for oral health, it’s important to note that their efficacy may vary depending on various factors, including the type of plant used, individual oral hygiene practices, and dietary habits. Chewing sticks should not be considered a replacement for modern dental care practices, such as regular brushing and flossing, professional dental cleanings, and fluoride treatments.
Ultimately, more research is needed to better understand the specific mechanisms by which chewing sticks impact oral health and to determine their effectiveness in preventing dental caries. Individuals interested in using chewing sticks as part of their oral hygiene routine should consult with a dental professional for guidance and incorporate them into a comprehensive oral care regimen.