Abstract

Background & Aim:Dental caries is a widespread oral health issue predominantly caused by Streptococcus mutans, a bacterium known for its ability to form biofilms on tooth surfaces. The use of non-cariogenic sweeteners with potential therapeutic benefits offers a promising strategy for caries prevention. Stevia rebaudiana, a natural plant-based sweetener, has shown antimicrobial properties, but its application in child-friendly formulations such as lozenges remains underexplored. This study aimed to develop lozenges using Stevia rebaudiana and evaluate their antibacterial and antibiofilm efficacy against Streptococcus mutans, comparing their activity to commercial sugar-free alternatives. Methods:Lozenges were prepared using Stevia rebaudiana extract, palm sugar, ginger, lemon, and water. Extracted molar teeth were inoculated with S. mutans prepared in Brain Heart Infusion (BHI) broth. After incubation, treatments included natural sugar-free (control), commercial sugar-free green, and Stevia lozenges. The biofilm biomass was quantified using crystal violet staining, and viable bacterial counts were assessed through colony-forming unit (CFU) analysis after sonication and plating on BHI agar. Results: The Stevia lozenges demonstrated a significant reduction in S. mutans viability and biofilm formation. CFU analysis showed 20 CFU/ml for both Stevia lozenge and sugar-free green treatments, in contrast to 1000 CFU/ml for the natural sugar-free control. Biofilm quantification supported these findings, indicating lower biomass in treated samples. Conclusion:Lozenges formulated with Stevia rebaudiana effectively inhibited S. mutans growth and biofilm formation, showing comparable efficacy to commercial sugar-free products. This study highlights the potential of Stevia lozenges as a natural, non-cariogenic, and child-friendly alternative with therapeutic applications in oral health care.

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