Effect of 0.2% Betel Nut Mouth Rinse on Flow Rate, pH, Bacterial Parameters of Saliva: A Clinical Trial

Background Areca nut having a sialagogue effect and antibacterial activity against several bacteria can help to reduce dental caries. In the present study Areca nut in the form of a mouth rinse was used.Aim To evaluate and compare the effect on salivary parameters and bacterial count before and after the use of betel nut mouth rinse.Method Baseline salivary sample was collected from each patient on day 1. The collected samples were then used to evaluate salivary pH salivary flow rate and total bacterial count. Subsequently 5 mL of 0.2 betel nut study solution was given to the subjects as mouth rinse for using once daily for one minute for a period of 15 days. At the end of 15 days the post rinse salivary samples were collected and evaluated for the same parameters.Results The results obtained in our study demonstrated that using 0.2 betel nut as a mouth rinse has potential to reduce the oral bacterial count significantly. Although there was a difference in flow rate before and after the intervention the values obtained were not significant.Conclusion The results of this study conclusively demonstrated that 0.2 betel nut extract when used as a mouth rinse does reduce the concentration of oral bacteria and hence can have a positive impact on the overall oral health of an individual.