Evaluation of Efficacy of Antibacterial Activity of Licorice, Clove, and Chlorohexidine Mouthwashes on Salivary Streptococcus Mutans in a Group of Egyptian Children.

A randomized controlled trial that compares the antibacterial effectiveness of three mouthwashes-licorice, clove, and chlorhexidine-in Egyptian children aged 7-12 years. The main focus is Streptococcus mutans, one of the main bacteria associated with dental caries. The saliva samples will be collected from the children and the amount of S. mutans will be measured before and after using the assigned mouthwash. The children will be randomly divided into groups, with each group receiving one of the three mouthwashes. The bacterial counts will then be compared to determine which mouthwash is most effective at reducing salivary S. mutans. The research question is whether natural mouthwashes made from licorice or clove reduce the bacteria that cause cavities as effectively as chlorhexidine in children? The study could help determine whether licorice and clove are effective natural alternatives or adjuncts to chlorhexidine, particularly considering that chlorhexidine can have undesirable effects with prolonged use. Overall aim: Compare and evaluate the antibacterial efficacy of the three mouthwashes

Inclusion Criteria: * Pediatric patients with high caries index based on CAMBRA. * Frankl scale 3 and 4 (cooperative). Exclusion Criteria: * Patients with teeth showing signs of infection (abscess or fistula) * Patients with mucositis (can't be given alcohol containing mouthwashes) * Hypertensive patients. * Allergic patients. * Special health care patients.