Antibacterial effect of tea tree on Streptococcus mutans

Yu-Ri Choi   Min-Kyung Kang1,*   

Department of Dental Hygiene, Hallym Polytechnic University
1Department of Dental Hygiene, Hanseo University

Abstract

Objectives: The purpose of this study is to investigate the antibacterial effect of Streptococcus mutans of tea tree ingredient. Methods: The experimental groups were each given with different concentrations (30 or 50 vol%) of tea tree prepared in saline solution. The control group applied only saline solution. The tea tree coating of the specimen were examined under a scanning electron microscope. For the antibacterial activity test of the tea tree, the contact angle of the tea tree- coated specimen’s surface was analyzed. The antibacterial effect against Streptococcus mutans was determined by counting the colony forming units (CFU). The statical statics were evaluated by using one-way ANOVA and paired t-test. Results: The tea tree treated group of hydrophilic more than non treated group. Antibacterial experiments demonstrated that tee tree solution was effective against Streptococcus mutans. However there was no significant difference in depending solution concentration groups. Conclusions: The antimicrobial activity of the tea tree containing solution showed its potential for use as coating for denture and medical materials.

Figures & Tables

Scanning electron microscope image of specimens surface after 24 and 48 hours (× 500): (a) saline, (b) tea tree solution 30%, and (c) tea tree solution 50%