Mouthwash Potency Against Bacterial Growth: Implications for Oral Hygiene Practices

Short Communication

Abstract

The potency of various mouthwash solutions in inhibiting bacterial growth was assessed using a standardized agar plate assay. A diverse range of mouthwash formulations, including an Ethiopian herbal mouthwash derived from Garden Cress (Feto), underwent testing against bacterial cultures. The results unveiled significant disparities in bacterial inhibition among the mouthwash solutions. Mouthwashes containing lemon and citric oils (Listerine Naturals Citrus Fluoride Mouthwash and Thera Breath) emerged as the most potent, generating a substantial inhibition zone with a diameter of 40.9 mm. Mouthwash that uses Cinnamon oil (Listerine Naturals Antiseptic and Crest Pro-Health Multi-Protection) also displayed gentle and mild inhibitory activity, forming inhibition zones measuring 23.9 mm in diameter. Mouthwashes containing Lavoris and PerCara mouthwashes exhibited notable potency, each producing inhibition zones with identical diameters of 25 mm. Similarly, Dentiguard components also displayed considerable inhibitory activity, forming inhibition zones measuring 9 mm in diameter. Conversely, Feto, mouthwash exhibited smaller inhibition zones, ranging from 9 mm in diameter showing less disruption of the oral flora. These findings underscore the varying efficacy of mouthwash solutions in hindering bacterial growth and underscore the significance of selecting appropriate formulations for maintaining optimal oral hygiene depending on individual needs.