Efficacy of Propolis Varnish Against Oral Biofilm

Antimicrobials are substances used in dentistry as an efficient way of caries prevention. Substances such as chlorhexidine are the most known and most applied for this purpose and, as a varnish, increased its anticariogenic potential. The antimicrobial effects of natural substances are being studied for exhibiting antimicrobial properties similar to those of chlorhexidine, but less toxic in some cases. Several studies with propolis has proven its efficacy against several microorganisms of the oral cavity, specially Streptococcus mutans. A pharmaceutical formulation containing brazilian green propolis was developed based on the chitosan polymer that is biocompatible and biodegradable. In a previous study, we observed in vitro antimicrobial properties of the varnish against Streptococcus mutans. This work aims to study the preliminary evidence of the efficacy of the propolis dental varnish in reducing Streptococcus mutans in saliva and in the biofilm control through a phase II study involving patients with 8-10 years. After 30 days, the results will be compared and statistically analyzed at a level of significance of 5 % .

Inclusion criteria

• children 8-10 years old
• good general health condition
• not making use of mouthwashes or medications (especially antibiotics), until three weeks prior to the beginning of the experiment.

Exclusion criteria

• Patients in medical treatment or who used drugs (especially antibiotics), in the three previous weeks and patients with active caries lesions.