Analysis of the Potential of Betel Leaf (Piper Betle L.) and Cetylpyridinium Chloride (CPC) to Reduce the Number of Bacteria in the Oral Cavity

Abstract

Introduction: poor oral health can be caused by the growth of pathogenic bacteria. Mouthwash is a solution or liquid that can be used to eliminate pathogenic bacteria, thereby preventing halitosis and dental caries. Betel leaf (Piper Betle L.) and Cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC) have antibacterial inhibition that can reduce the number of bacteria. Differences in concentration and composition in betel leaf and CPC can affect the effectiveness in inhibiting bacterial growth in the oral cavity. Purpose: to further analyze the potential of betel leaf (Piper Betle L.) and Cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC) to reduce the number of bacteria in the oral cavity. Methods: based on the exclusion and inclusion criteria, a total of fifteen (15) journals were analyzed from the Google Scholar, Research Gate, PubMed’s and NCBI. The journals that analyzed are regarding an article that discusses the potential of betel leaf and CPC to reduce the number of oral bacteria. Results: research with gargling using betel leaf and CPC shows that betel leaf are as effective as mouthwash containing CPC in reducing the number of oral bacteria. However, there are studies that state that gargling with mouthwash containing CPC is significantly higher inhibition of bacterial growth compared mouthwash containing betel leaf extract. Conclusion: this review reveals that betel leaf (Piper Betle L.) and Cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC) are equally effective in reducing the number of bacteria in the oral cavity.