Effect of Bulgarian propolis on the oral microflora in adolescents with plaque-induced gingivitis

Abstract

We compared the effect of two therapeutic approaches (marketed toothpaste and addition of Bulgarian propolis extract to the toothpaste) on gingival inflammation, plaque formation and oral microbial flora on Bulgarian adolescents with moderate plaque-induced gingivitis. The participants were divided randomly into two groups of 35 students. The first group was instructed to use marketed toothpaste in their routine oral hygiene. The second group was instructed to add 10 drops of Propolin® to the toothpaste before every brushing. The Gingival index and Plaque index were registered and dental plaque samples were collected on the first visit and on the 20th day of the study. After the treatment, the number of students with Gingival index = 1.1–2.0 in the second group was significantly lower than the respective number in the first group. Neisseria spp. and Streptococcus spp. were present in all samples before and after treatment. The addition of propolis resulted in the complete eradication of Streptococcus mutans, Candida albicans, Fusobacterium varium, Gram-negative cocci, Gram-positive rods, Porphyromonas asaccharolyticus, Prevotella bivia, Prevotella intermedia, Prevotella melani and Streptococcus intermedius. The analyses of Propolin® composition revealed it was a black poplar type propolis and is rich in compounds with pronounced antimicrobial activity. In conclusion, the addition of Bulgarian propolis to the toothpaste improved the gingival health in adolescents with moderate plaque-induced gingivitis and resulted in increased activity against potential periodontal and cariogenic pathogens.