Introduction

Oral hygiene measures have been practiced by different populations and cultures around the world since antiquity.  Chewing sticks were used by the Babylonians some 7000 years ago; they were later used throughout the Greek and Roman empires and have been used by Jews, Egyptians, and Muslims.  Today they are used in Africa, Asia, the Eastern Mediterranean region, and South America.¹

The most common source of miswak (chewing sticks) is Salvadora Persica, a small tree or shrub with a crooked trunk.  The stems and roots of the plants are spongy and can easily be crushed between the teeth.  Pieces of the root are usually scented and become soft when soaked in water.²

Several studies have reported on the antibacterial effects of chewing sticks on cariogenic bacteria and periodontal pathogens, particularly bacteroides species^3-5 and inhibitory action on dental plaque formation.⁶  Recent studies on miswak have improved the understanding about various factors of miswak, e.g., age, size, thickness, and its freshness.^7,8  The comparison of antimicrobial activity in aqueous and alcohol extracts has been made.⁹  However, a review of the literature has shown no previous investigation has assessed the comparative antimicrobial activity on salivary streptococcus mutans and lactobacilli using miswak and a toothbrush.

The aim of this study was to assess the antimicrobial activity of miswak extract, the use of a toothbrush alone, and saline on salivary streptococcus mutans and lactobacilli in vivo.  This research project was registered and approved by the College of Dentistry Research Center (CDRC) ethical committee.

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Citation Number: Vol. 5, No. 1, Page 106