Antimicrobial and antibiofilm activity of curcumin against oral pathogens: Potential for periodontal treatment

Periodontitis, a prevalent oral disease, arises from a consortium of oral bacterial species that form biofilms on tooth surfaces, triggering host inflammatory responses and leading to clinical symptoms. Curcumin (CUR), a natural polyphenolic compound, has garnered significant attention for its therapeutic properties. This study investigates the antibacterial and antibiofilm activities of CUR against oral pathogens. Minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs) and minimal bactericidal concentrations (MBCs), time-kill curves, anti-adhesion, and antibiofilm assays were performed against a panel of oral bacteria associated with dental caries and periodontal disease. The results demonstrate that CUR exhibits notable antimicrobial activity, with MIC and MBC values ranging from 15.62 to 31.25 µg/mL and 31.25–125 µg/mL, respectively, against various oral pathogens, including S. mutans, P. intermedia, and A. actinomycetemcomitans. Additionally, CUR showed significant antibiofilm activity, disrupting the formation and stability of oral bacterial biofilms, which are critical in conferring drug resistance to antimicrobial agents. The promising potential of curcumin for oral health underscores the need for further research to develop CUR-based formulations for oral healthcare regimens, potentially improving oral health outcomes.