Mucoadhesive polymeric film with plant-based compounds for dental applications: formulation, characterization and evaluation

Polymeric films are promising formulations for oromucosal drug delivery, particularly for localized treatment of dental diseases. This study focused on developing mucoadhesive films for dental applications, incorporating clove CO₂ extract and essential oils of lavender and grapefruit as active ingredients. The films were prepared using the solvent casting method, with various film-forming agents (sodium alginate, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, polyvinyl alcohol) used individually and in combinations, without or with plasticizers (glycerol, polyethylene glycol 400, or their mixtures). To optimize the selection of mucoadhesive polymer and plasticizer, properties such as appearance, thickness, pH, moisture content, bursting strength, tensile capacity, elasticity, dissolution, and adhesion, were evaluated. The combination of hydroxyethyl cellulose and hydroxypropyl cellulose with polyethylene glycol 400 was proved most suitable, ensuring superior organoleptic, physicochemical, and textural characteristics. The films demonstrated strong mucoadhesion (9.20 ± 0.58 N), contributing prolonged retention on the mucosa and enhanced bioavailability of the active ingredients. <i>In vitro</i> release studies showed sustained release profile, with approximately 90% of eugenol released during the final film dissolution phase (360-420 min), supporting prolonged therapeutic effects and enhanced local therapy efficacy. The films also exhibited significant antimicrobial activity against a broad spectrum of microorganisms, confirming their potential for treating infectious and inflammatory oral diseases.