Evaluation of Antibacterial and Antibiofilm Activity of Cucurbita Maxima Leaf Extract Against Streptococcus Mutans Isolated from Orthodontic Patients

Aim The aim of this investigation was to evaluate the antimicrobial activity and anti-biofilm activity of Cucurbita Maxima leaf extract on Streptococcus mutans isolated from dental plaque of subjects undergoing orthodontic treatment. Methodology Dental plaque samples were collected from out patients undergoing orthodontic treatment. From the plaque samples Biochemical Characterisation of Streptococcus mutans then Collection of Medicinal Plants was done followed by Preparation of Solvent Extract and stock Solution. Evaluation of Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) of the plant extract and Biofilm Inhibition Assay with Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrum Analysis (GCMS) was carried out. Results The MIC was identified to be 1.25mg/ml. The biofilm inhibition assay showed that the extract did not inhibit the formation of the biofilm. The GCMS analysis identified twenty five constituent compounds from the crude extract.  Conclusion  The C. maxima leaf extract showed antibacterial activity against S. mutans and the minimum inhibitory concentration was identified at 1.25mg/ml. The extract did not inhibit the formation of biofilm.