The Effect of Brushing With Salvadorapersica (Miswak) Sticks on Salivary Streptococcus Mutants and Plaque Level in Children: a Clinical Trial

Objectives: to evaluate the effect of brushing with Salvadora persica (Miswak) on streptococcus mutants compared to brushing with fluoridated tooth paste (FTP) in children. Methods: A total of 94 healthy children (8 years old) from an elementary governmental school in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia were grouped to Miswak and FTP groups. They were assessed for their salivary level of mutans streptococci species, and lactobacillus at the baseline and three weeks after brushing. Caries level using DMFT/dmft, and plaque amount using Greene Vermillion simplified oral hygiene index were recorded.