Herbals in Dentistry

Oral diseases are one of the most important problems in public health and are tremendoudsly rising in the developing countries. Most of the diseases are the resultant of bacterial infections. The antibacterial activities of medicinal plants are because of the presence of potential bio-active compounds which help to diminish and subsequently eliminate the bacterial load in the oral cavity and thus prevent formation of plaque, dental caries and ulcers. As demonstrated there is considerable evidence that plant extracts, essential oil sand, purified phytochemicals have the potential to be developed into agents that can be used as protective or curative means for oral diseases. While it is quite promising to see a number of clinical trials of such products, further studies on safety and efficacy of these agents are important to institute their therapeutic benefits either alone or in conjuction with the conventional therapies.Research and development of natural anti-bacterial compounds that are harmless for host or specific, for the oral pathogens is promoted. The active principles of these plants should be incorporated into dental practice to improve the quality of the dental treatment.