Antimicrobial Activity of Allium sativum- Loaded Oral Thin Film Against Streptococcus mutans

Abstract

Streptococcus mutans is a well-known bacterium that causes dental diseases such as tooth erosion. Few antimicrobial agents have been developed to combat S. mutans in the mouth. This includes the use of fluoride. However, the excessive use of fluoride can cause significant tooth discoloration. Hence, the use of herbs such as Allium sativum, or known as garlic, is proposed to fight against S. mutans in the mouth. A. sativum was chosen as antimicrobial agent because it contains allicin. Allicin has the ability to reduce inflammation, as well as blocking free radical. In addition, the release of allicin from A. sativum is very rapid, making it suitable to be antimicrobial, fighting the pathogen in the mouth. However, direct application of garlic may not be really suitable. Therefore, A. sativum extract is loaded into oral thin film (OTF) to release the properties, as OTF improves its absorption rate and is not easily interrupted by drinking and eating.