Evaluation of virulence factors and cell viability of cariogenic bacteria in the presence of Terpinen-4-ol: in vitro study

Abstract

The use of auxiliary substances in the hygiene, prevention and treatment of oral diseases has been widely spread. The prevention and control of dental plaque should be achieved by mechanical removal and to assist in controlling and reducing the biofilm are recommended mouthwash containing fluoride and antimicrobial agents that may be chemical or natural products. These antimicrobial agents should be effective against microorganisms, act quickly, have no side effects and use without causing discomfort. Alternative therapies with natural extracts open new perspectives for prevention and control of dental disease in search of favorable therapeutic effects. Thus, the Terpinen-4-ol (component of Melaleuca alternifolia oil), membrane-active biocide broad spectrum of action, has been employed as antimicrobial agent and its indications include use in toothpastes without causing bacterial resistance or cytotoxic effects when in contact with the cells of the oral mucosa. This component also has the ability to act in inducing loss of membrane integrity and interfering with the physiology of the microorganism cell. Therefore the objectives of this study are: i) to evaluate the antimicrobial effect of Terpinen-4-ol on cariogenic biofilm on enamel and dentine to Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus acidophilus by Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy (CLSM); ii) to evaluate the virulence factors expressed by these cariogenic bacteria in the presence of Terpinen-4-ol by real-time PCR. (AU)