Effect of rosemary oil extract on biofilm formation by streptococcus mutans-a invitro study

Aim: To identify the effects of rosemary oil extract on biofilm formation by Streptococcus mutans.
Background: A biofilm is any group of microorganisms in which cells stick to each other and often these cells adhere to a surface. These adherent cells are frequently embedded within a self produced matrix of extracellular polymeric substance (EPS). Streptococcus mutans is implicated as a major etiological agent in human dental caries, and one of the important virulence properties of this organism is its ability to form biofilms ( dental plaque) on tooth surfaces. The present study was done to identify the effects of rosemary oil on biofilm formation by Streptococcus mutants.
Materials and Methods: The organism Streptococcus mutans was isolated from saliva sample using special media [Mutans – sanguis agar] and maintained in Tryptose soya agar at 4 degree C in department of microbiology, Saveetha dental college and hospitals.
Results: On analyzing the results it was observed that rosemary oil tends to prevent biofilm formation by Streptococcus mutans
Conclusion: Rosemary oil can be effectively used in dental aids to prevent biofilm formation