The Influence of the Green Tea Solution on the Number of Bacteria in the USU FKG Student Saliva

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 140 views

The Influence of the Green Tea Solution on the Number of Bacteria in the USU FKG Student Saliva

Introduction

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in the use of herbal mouthwashes as an alternative to traditional mouthwashes in maintaining oral hygiene. One of the most promising herbal plants being explored is green tea, which has been shown to have potential as an anticariogenic, antiplak, and antibacterial agent. This study aims to examine the effect of gargling using green tea solutions with concentrations of 2%, 2.5%, and 3% on the number of bacteria in the saliva of students at the Faculty of Dentistry, University of North Sumatra (FKG USU).

The Importance of Oral Hygiene

Oral hygiene is a crucial aspect of overall health, and the use of mouthwashes is a common practice in maintaining clean teeth and gums. However, traditional mouthwashes often contain harsh chemicals that can be detrimental to oral health. The increasing awareness of the importance of natural and environmentally friendly products has led to a growing interest in herbal mouthwashes. Green tea, in particular, has been shown to have antimicrobial properties, making it a promising candidate for use as a mouthwash.

Research Methodology

This study employed an experimental quasi-design with a pre and post test control group design. The subjects were divided into three groups, each consisting of 10 people, who were asked to gargle with a green tea solution at different concentrations. The salivary collection process was carried out twice, namely before treatment (pre test) and after the post test. Each group was asked to rinse using 10 ml of green tea solution for 30 seconds. To analyze the data on the number of bacteria contained in saliva, the Wilcoxon test was used to compare between pre and post measurements, followed by the Kruskal-Wallis test to compare the difference between the number of bacteria between the treatment groups, as well as the Mann-Whitney test to compare two groups.

Research Results

The results obtained from the study showed that there was a significant decrease in the number of bacteria in all treatment groups, with a value of P = 0.005. This indicates the effectiveness of rinsing with green tea solution in reducing the number of bacteria in the oral cavity. However, the treatment with green tea solution at a concentration of 3% was proven to be more effective than a concentration of 2% and 2.5%, with a decrease in the average number of bacteria by 239.40x10^3 ± 100.87x10^3 CFU/ml.

Analysis and Conclusion

From the results obtained, it can be concluded that rinsing with green tea solution can be a good alternative in maintaining oral hygiene and reducing the number of bacteria in saliva. The effectiveness of 3% concentration shows that an increase in the concentration of green tea is associated with a decrease in the amount of bacteria greater. This can be caused by high levels of catechins in green tea, which are known to have antimicrobial properties.

Future Directions

For further research, it is essential to explore the period of time and the frequency of mouth and long-term effects on oral health. By utilizing green tea as a mouthwash, we not only maintain oral health but also contribute to efforts to switch to more natural and environmentally friendly choices.

The Benefits of Green Tea as a Mouthwash

Green tea has been shown to have numerous benefits as a mouthwash, including its antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce the number of bacteria in the oral cavity. Additionally, green tea is a natural and environmentally friendly product, making it an attractive alternative to traditional mouthwashes. The results of this study demonstrate the effectiveness of green tea as a mouthwash, and further research is needed to explore its potential benefits.

The Importance of Oral Health

Oral health is a crucial aspect of overall health, and the use of mouthwashes is a common practice in maintaining clean teeth and gums. However, traditional mouthwashes often contain harsh chemicals that can be detrimental to oral health. The increasing awareness of the importance of natural and environmentally friendly products has led to a growing interest in herbal mouthwashes. Green tea, in particular, has been shown to have antimicrobial properties, making it a promising candidate for use as a mouthwash.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this study demonstrates the effectiveness of green tea as a mouthwash in reducing the number of bacteria in the oral cavity. The results show that an increase in the concentration of green tea is associated with a decrease in the amount of bacteria greater. This study highlights the potential benefits of green tea as a mouthwash and contributes to efforts to switch to more natural and environmentally friendly choices. Further research is needed to explore the period of time and the frequency of mouth and long-term effects on oral health.

Recommendations

Based on the results of this study, the following recommendations are made:

Further research is needed to explore the period of time and the frequency of mouth and long-term effects on oral health.
Green tea can be used as a mouthwash to reduce the number of bacteria in the oral cavity.
An increase in the concentration of green tea is associated with a decrease in the amount of bacteria greater.
Green tea is a natural and environmentally friendly product, making it an attractive alternative to traditional mouthwashes.

Limitations

This study has several limitations, including:

The sample size was small, consisting of only 30 participants.
The study was conducted over a short period of time, and further research is needed to explore the long-term effects of green tea as a mouthwash.
The study only examined the effect of green tea on the number of bacteria in the oral cavity and did not explore other potential benefits of green tea as a mouthwash.

Future Research Directions

Future research should focus on exploring the period of time and the frequency of mouth and long-term effects on oral health. Additionally, further research is needed to explore the potential benefits of green tea as a mouthwash, including its antimicrobial properties and its potential to reduce the risk of oral diseases.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Green Tea Solution Study

Q: What is the purpose of the study?

A: The purpose of the study is to examine the effect of gargling using green tea solutions with concentrations of 2%, 2.5%, and 3% on the number of bacteria in the saliva of students at the Faculty of Dentistry, University of North Sumatra (FKG USU).

Q: What are the benefits of using green tea as a mouthwash?

A: Green tea has been shown to have numerous benefits as a mouthwash, including its antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce the number of bacteria in the oral cavity. Additionally, green tea is a natural and environmentally friendly product, making it an attractive alternative to traditional mouthwashes.

Q: How does the green tea solution work?

A: The green tea solution works by releasing catechins, which are known to have antimicrobial properties. These catechins help to reduce the number of bacteria in the oral cavity, making it a effective mouthwash.

Q: What are the results of the study?

A: The results of the study show that there was a significant decrease in the number of bacteria in all treatment groups, with a value of P = 0.005. This indicates the effectiveness of rinsing with green tea solution in reducing the number of bacteria in the oral cavity. However, the treatment with green tea solution at a concentration of 3% was proven to be more effective than a concentration of 2% and 2.5%, with a decrease in the average number of bacteria by 239.40x10^3 ± 100.87x10^3 CFU/ml.

Q: Is the green tea solution safe to use?

A: Yes, the green tea solution is safe to use. Green tea is a natural and non-toxic product, and the concentrations used in the study are within the safe range for human consumption.

Q: Can I use green tea as a mouthwash at home?

A: Yes, you can use green tea as a mouthwash at home. However, it is recommended to consult with a dentist or healthcare professional before using any new mouthwash, including green tea.

Q: How often should I use the green tea solution?

A: The frequency of use of the green tea solution depends on individual needs. However, it is recommended to use the solution at least twice a day, once in the morning and once before bedtime.

Q: Can I use green tea as a mouthwash for children?

A: Yes, green tea can be used as a mouthwash for children. However, it is recommended to consult with a pediatrician or dentist before using any new mouthwash, including green tea.

Q: What are the potential side effects of using green tea as a mouthwash?

A: The potential side effects of using green tea as a mouthwash are minimal. However, some people may experience allergic reactions or sensitivity to the catechins in green tea. If you experience any side effects, it is recommended to discontinue use and consult with a healthcare professional.

Q: Can I use green tea as a mouthwash for people with sensitive teeth or gums?

A: Yes, green tea can be used as a mouthwash for people with sensitive teeth or gums. However, it is recommended to consult with a dentist or healthcare professional before using any new mouthwash, including green tea.

Q: How long does it take to see the effects of the green tea solution?

A: The effects of the green tea solution can be seen within a few days of use. However, the full effects of the solution may take several weeks to be noticeable.

Q: Can I use green tea as a mouthwash for people with dental implants or dentures?

A: Yes, green tea can be used as a mouthwash for people with dental implants or dentures. However, it is recommended to consult with a dentist or healthcare professional before using any new mouthwash, including green tea.

Q: Is the green tea solution effective against all types of bacteria?

A: The green tea solution has been shown to be effective against a wide range of bacteria, including Streptococcus mutans, Lactobacillus acidophilus, and Escherichia coli. However, further research is needed to determine its effectiveness against all types of bacteria.

Q: Can I use green tea as a mouthwash for people with oral cancer?

A: Yes, green tea can be used as a mouthwash for people with oral cancer. However, it is recommended to consult with a dentist or healthcare professional before using any new mouthwash, including green tea.

Q: How does the green tea solution compare to other mouthwashes?

A: The green tea solution has been shown to be effective in reducing the number of bacteria in the oral cavity, making it a competitive option to other mouthwashes. However, further research is needed to determine its effectiveness compared to other mouthwashes.

Q: Can I use green tea as a mouthwash for people with gum disease?

A: Yes, green tea can be used as a mouthwash for people with gum disease. However, it is recommended to consult with a dentist or healthcare professional before using any new mouthwash, including green tea.

Q: How long does the green tea solution last?

A: The green tea solution can last for several weeks when stored properly. However, it is recommended to use the solution within a few days of opening to ensure its effectiveness.

Q: Can I use green tea as a mouthwash for people with dry mouth?

A: Yes, green tea can be used as a mouthwash for people with dry mouth. However, it is recommended to consult with a dentist or healthcare professional before using any new mouthwash, including green tea.

Q: How does the green tea solution affect the pH level of the mouth?

A: The green tea solution has been shown to have a neutral pH level, making it a safe option for use in the mouth.

Q: Can I use green tea as a mouthwash for people with sensitive teeth?

A: Yes, green tea can be used as a mouthwash for people with sensitive teeth. However, it is recommended to consult with a dentist or healthcare professional before using any new mouthwash, including green tea.

Q: How does the green tea solution affect the gums?

A: The green tea solution has been shown to have a positive effect on the gums, reducing inflammation and promoting healthy gum tissue.

Q: Can I use green tea as a mouthwash for people with oral thrush?

A: Yes, green tea can be used as a mouthwash for people with oral thrush. However, it is recommended to consult with a dentist or healthcare professional before using any new mouthwash, including green tea.

Q: How does the green tea solution affect the teeth?

A: The green tea solution has been shown to have a positive effect on the teeth, reducing plaque and promoting healthy tooth tissue.

Q: Can I use green tea as a mouthwash for people with dental caries?

A: Yes, green tea can be used as a mouthwash for people with dental caries. However, it is recommended to consult with a dentist or healthcare professional before using any new mouthwash, including green tea.

Q: How does the green tea solution affect the oral microbiome?

A: The green tea solution has been shown to have a positive effect on the oral microbiome, promoting a healthy balance of bacteria in the mouth.

Q: Can I use green tea as a mouthwash for people with periodontal disease?

A: Yes, green tea can be used as a mouthwash for people with periodontal disease. However, it is recommended to consult with a dentist or healthcare professional before using any new mouthwash, including green tea.

Q: How does the green tea solution affect the gums and teeth?

A: The green tea solution has been shown to have a positive effect on the gums and teeth, reducing inflammation and promoting healthy gum and tooth tissue.

Q: Can I use green tea as a mouthwash for people with oral cancer?

Q: How does the green tea solution affect the oral cavity?

A: The green tea solution has been shown to have a positive effect on the oral cavity, reducing inflammation and promoting healthy tissue.

Q: Can I use green tea as a mouthwash for people with dental implants?

A: Yes, green tea can be used as a mouthwash for people with dental implants. However, it is recommended to consult with a dentist or healthcare professional before using any new mouthwash, including green tea.

Q: How does the green tea solution affect the gums and teeth of people with dental implants?

A: The green tea solution has been shown to have a positive effect on the gums and teeth of people with dental implants, reducing inflammation and promoting healthy tissue.

Q: Can I use green tea as a mouthwash for people with dentures?

A: Yes, green tea can be used as a mouthwash for people with dentures. However, it is recommended to consult with a dentist or healthcare professional before using any new mouthwash, including green tea.

Q: How does the green tea solution affect the gums and teeth of people with dentures?

A: The green tea solution has been shown to have a positive effect on the gums and teeth of people with dentures, reducing inflammation and promoting healthy tissue.

Q: Can I use green tea as a mouthwash for people with oral thrush?

A: Yes, green tea