Review Article ROLE OF MEDICINAL HERBS IN PREVENTION AND TREATMENT OF DENTAL DISEASES

Oral diseases are major health problems with dental caries and periodontal diseases among the most important preventable global infectious diseases. Oral health influences the general quality of life and poor oral health is linked to chronic conditions and systemic diseases. The association between oral diseases and the oral microbiota is well established. Of the more than 750 species of bacteria that inhabit the oral cavity, a number are implicated in oral diseases. The development of dental caries involves acidogenic and aciduric Gram-positive bacteria (Mutans streptococci, Lactobacilli and Actinomycetes). Periodontal diseases have been linked to anaerobic Gram-negative bacteria (Porphyromonas gingivalis, Actinobacillus, Prevotella and Fusobacterium). Given the incidence of oral disease, increased resistance by bacteria to antibiotics, adverse affects of some antibacterial agents currently used in dentistry and financial considerations in developing countries, there is a need for alternative prevention and treatment options that are safe, effective and economical. While several chemical agents are available commercially , these chemicals can alter oral microbiota and have undesirable sideeffects such as vomiting, diarrhea and tooth staining. Hence, the search for alternative yet safe products continues and natural phytochemicals isolated from plants used as traditional medicines come as good alternatives. In this review, plant extracts or phytochemicals that inhibit the growth of oral pathogens, reduce the development of biofilms and dental plaque and reduce the symptoms of oral diseases will be discussed further. Key wordsDental diseases, Herbs, Medicinal plants Ann Ayurvedic Med. 2012 : 1 (3) 95-101