Scientists from Abdulrahman bin Faisal University have found that eucalyptus oil can serve as a natural alternative to chlorhexidine in fighting cavities-causing bacteria. The study was published in the group’s journal Nature. bdj outdoor.
Biologists evaluated the antimicrobial properties of eucalyptus essential oil against bacteria. Enterococcus faecalis (E. stool) And streptococcus mutans (S. mutants). The former is the most treatment resistant bacteria in the oral cavity, while the latter has the ability to form biofilms that allow other microbes to attach to the teeth and secrete acids responsible for enamel damage.
After treatment with diluted essential oil, the number of free-living bacteria S. mutants fell 14 times E. stool – 30 times and the number of biofilm forms – 61 and 30 times, respectively. The results mean that eucalyptus essential oil may be more effective than chlorhexidine at fighting bacteria that cause cavities.
Eucalyptus essential oil could be a valuable addition to mouthwashes and toothpastes after further research. The study’s authors stressed that their results should not be taken as a recommendation to immediately replace traditional approaches to caries treatment.
If tooth decay is not treated early, it can lead to significant mineral loss and tooth decay. Traditionally, the early stages of caries are treated with chlorhexidine preparations, which the dentist applies to the tooth during the treatment procedure. The data of serious concern in connection with the continued use of the antiseptic is data showing that biofilms can develop resistance to it.
ancient scientists to solveHow to eliminate the root cause of tooth sensitivity.