Comparative Evaluation between Cranberry, Guava Leaf and Chlorhexidine (0.2%) Mouthwashes on Oral Microbiota and pH Among Interns in a Dental College in Rajahmundry City - A Randomized Control Trail

Introduction: Oral cavity is the mirror of our body hence protecting it from various microorganisms is essential. Natural sources of medicine like Cranberry and guava leaf are gaining good attention these days, and were found to exhibit antimicrobial activity: However, their use is less explored in combating oral disease Aim: To compare the efficiency between 0.2% Chlorhexidine, 0.6% Cranberry and 0.5% guava leaves extract mouthwashes on their antibacterial activity and salivary pH. Materials and methods: The present study is a randomized clinical trial conducted on 30 subjects (>18years) who volunteered to participate in the study. (0.2%) Chlorhexidine, (0.6%) Cranberry, (0.5%) Guava leaf extract mouthwashes, sterile swab, and pH strips were used. The study was conducted over a period of one week. The base line pH and microbial count was calculated for all the subjects before start of the study. Using double blinding each participant was given a random mouth wash and were asked to rinse twice a day after 30 minutes of brushing. After intervention all the groups were checked for the difference in the microbial count and salivary pH. Results: The difference in mean values before and after intervention for Cranberry (28.3%) and Guava leaf (28.5%) was very similar to chlorhexidine (25.8%), proving all the three mouthwashes are equally potent. There was no significant difference between mean salivary pH. Conclusion: Both Cranberry and guava leaf mouthwash were equally effective as Chlorhexidine with additional benefits of being herbal. Hence, they can be used as an alternative to Chlorhexidine. Key words: Chlorhexidine, Cranberry, Guava leaf, Oral Microbiota, pH