Effect of Anacardium occidentale Leaf Extracts on Dental Plaque Bacteria (Research Article)

Author(s): Ashwathi V, Shethal Anilkumar* and Sanjay Prasad S

Abstract: Dental plaque is a slimy build-up of bacteria that forms on the surface of teeth. Dental plaque is a biofilm of microorganisms (mostly bacteria) that grows on surfaces within the mouth. Dental plaque can give rise to dental caries (tooth decay) the localized destruction of the tissues of the tooth by acid produced from the bacterial degradation of fermentable sugars and periodontal problems such as gingivitis and chronic periodontitis. Thus, the present study concentrates on isolation and identification of microorganisms present in dental plaques. The antibacterial activity of the Anacardium occidentale (Cashew leaves) leaf extracts were also determined. The dental swabs were collected from individual having dental plaque and streaked on nutrient agar plates. The colonies were subjected to gram staining and series of biochemical tests like indole, methyl-red, voges-proskauer, citrate utilization and triple sugar ion test. Biofilm forming ability was determined using Congo red assay and tube test using crystal violet. Anacardium occidentale leaf extracts were prepared using aqueous and methanol as solvents. From the analysis, the isolated pathogens were found to be Streptococcus sp and Staphylococcus sp. The organisms were found to be biofilm producers. Aqueous extracts showed 15mm and 14mm; and methnol extracts showed 15mm and 13mm against Streptococcus sp. and Staphylococcus sp. Therefore, Anacardium occidentale leaf extracts can be used for the treatment of dental plaques.

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