ABSTRACT
Aim: To compare the antibacterial efficacy of Kidodent, Probiotics, and Carica papaya Leaf extract mouthwashes in reducing Streptococcus mutans count in 8–12 years' old school children. Methodology: Sixty children of age group of 8–12 years were nominated and grouped as Group A (Kidodent mouthwash), Group B (probiotics mouthwash) Group C (C. papaya leaf extract mouthwash), and Group D (distilled water placebo). Probiotics sachets (Prebact) of about 1 g were diluted in 10 ml of water and given as mouthwash. C. papaya leaf extract was obtained by Soxhlet extraction using ethanol as a solvent. Participants were asked to rinse with mouthwashes for 30 s once daily for up to 15 days. Saliva samples were collected and inoculated using Salivarius Mitis and Agar Agar Type I at 38°C for 24 h and incubated, later colony-forming units per milliliter were determined by serial dilution and calculated using colony counter manually. Statistical Analysis: Data were statistically analyzed using the one-way ANOVA and t-test using the SPSS V.20 software. Results: Probiotics and C. papaya leaf extract mouthwashes were equally effective as Kidodent in reducing S. mutans count in saliva. Conclusion: Probiotics and C. papaya leaf extract mouthwashes manifested potential efficacy in reduction of S. mutans.