Antibacterial activity of chewing stick, dental powder and toothpastes sold in Umuahia, Abia State, Nigeria

Aims: To determine and compare the antimicrobial activity of chewing stick Salvadora persica (Miswak), dental powder toothpastes sold in Umuahia, Abia state Nigeria against selected oral bacteria (Streptococcus spp, Staphylococcus Porphyromona spp Lactobacillus spp). Method: The (Miswak) extracts (ethanol aqueous), two (Agnes nwamma N-sol) five brand (Close-Up, Oral-B, Colgate, MacClean Pepsodent) was investigated test organisms spp) that cause caries. This carried out at different concentrations (500 mg/ml, 250 125 mg/ml 62.5 mg/ml). Results: Among extracts, ethanol extract showed more efficacy than aqueous extract. Agnes N-sol powder. toothpastes, Close-Up other toothpastes. observed majorly depend on concentrations; higher concentration, efficacy. In overall comparison between stick, with exception tend to be a bit efficacious stick. also good activity. Conclusion: work suggests are effective pathogens. Chewing can used by families cannot afford