Comparative Evaluation of the Phytochemical Analysis and Efficacy of Four Plant-derived Extracts against Streptococcus mutans: An In Vitro Study

IntroductIonOral dental health is an integral segment of overall health, sharing common causal pathways and impacting each other in a symbiotic manner. 1 Oral diseases are one of the most exorbitant conditions to manage in certain nations. 2,3Research has proven the deadly association between heightened proportions of Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) and caries. 4The appropriate of fluorides, antimicrobials, and chlorhexidine in different forms is recognized in oral hygiene maintenance and prevention of dental caries. 3Nevertheless, several limitations and problems need to be addressed which include fluoride toxicity, staining of teeth, and taste alteration besides the occurrence of resistant microbes which restrict its long-term application.Plants are revolutionizing a renaissance worldwide with phytomedicines symbolizing safety and feasibility. 5Hence the hunt for alternative products persists, and long-established traditional phytomedicine is considered a feasible substitute for mainstream medicine.Ayurveda, a holistic practice of medicine that developed in the Indian subcontinent 3,000-5,000 years ago, is now practiced worldwide as complementary alternative medicine. 6,7Fortifying research on the pharmacological activities of plant-based medicines is salient to validate their dental applications. 8The first step toward this goal is the in vitro evaluation of the phytochemical properties and antibacterial assay. 9Therefore, this study aimed to compare and evaluate four different natural plant-derived extracts.