EVALUATION OF THE EFFICACY OF OUSHADHI TOOTH POWDER USING MICROBES ISOLATED FROM DENTAL PLAQUE AND ITS IMPLICATIONS IN GERIATRIC PATIENTS.

The oral cavity houses diverse microbial species influenced by various extrinsic and intrinsic factors, leading to biofilm formation and subsequent plaque build-up with caries evolution. Prevention strategies focusing on herbal ingredients and their efficacy in preventing dental plaque are essential to study. The mouth's microflora acts as a natural barrier to pathogens, playing a crucial role in host defense. However, some microorganisms are opportunistic pathogens that can cause transient bacteremia and pyogenic infections. Hence, it is imperative to evaluate the efficacy of tooth powder in preventing bacterial adhesion using models that simulate biofilm formation in the oral environment. Additionally, antimicrobial sensitivity tests are performed to assess the effectiveness of ingredients present in tooth powder. These tests can help develop better oral healthcare products like herbal toothpaste, mouthwashes, and gargles. Improper oral health maintenance can lead to tooth and gum disease, which, if left untreated, can worsen chronic health conditions such as heart disease, arthritis, and diabetes. Maintaining oral health in the elderly presents unique challenges. This study aims to study the various parameters of an effective herbal toothpowder which contains mango leaves and suggest its form change to a mouthwash which may be better accepted. It is hoped that such a mouthwash will motivate geriatric patients to take an enthusiastic role in caring for their oral health holistically.