Comparative evaluation of the antimicrobial efficacy of aloe vera tooth gel and two popular commercial toothpastes: an in vitro study

Gen Dent. 2009 May-Jun;57(3):238-41.

Abstract

Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis Miller) has been suggested for a wide variety of ailments but its use in dentistry is limited. This article reviews the uses of the plant and describes an in vitro investigation that compared the antimicrobial effectiveness of aloe vera tooth gel with two popular, commercially available dentifrices. The preliminary results showed that aloe vera tooth gel and the toothpastes were equally effective against Candida albicans, Streptococcus mutans, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Enterococcus faecalis, Prevotella intermedia, and Peptostreptococcus anaerobius. Aloe vera tooth gel demonstrated enhanced antibacterial effect against S. mitis.

MeSH terms

  • Aloe*
  • Anti-Infective Agents, Local / pharmacology*
  • Bacteria / drug effects*
  • Dentifrices / pharmacology*
  • Microbial Sensitivity Tests
  • Plant Preparations / pharmacology*

Substances

  • Anti-Infective Agents, Local
  • Dentifrices
  • Plant Preparations