The crucial role of S. mutans in the development of caries is well
authenticated and thus it has become the prime target for
prevention. Different antimicrobial drugs have been tested against biofilm formation and maturation. Use of these compounds also
shows a reduction in the number of viable micro-organisms in the
oral flora. Although effective, such antibacterial therapies have
several undesirable side effects [15]. In order to develop a novel
and effective chemotherapeutic approach (other than microbicides)
against dental biofilms, use of plants could be a very
promising way to thwart the pathogenesis of oral infectious
diseases such as dental caries.