Comparative evaluation of anticariogenic efficacy of Ocimum basilicum varnish and fluoride varnish among 6 to 8 years old school children: A double-blind randomized controlled trial

Topical fluoride has been widely used in preventing dental caries. However, its deleterious effects on dental, skeletal, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal and neurological tissues emphasize on the need of an alternative dental varnish which is safe and biocompatible. Recent approaches in modern medicine aim to derive ingredients from nature as they are organic, biocompatible and less expensive. In this study, Ocimum basilicum seeds commonly called as ‘Sweet basil” are used for formulation of a herbal varnish as they are rich source of calcium and phosphorous and possess antibacterial properties. Dental caries is considered as the most important global oral health burden affecting 60-90% of school-aged children with 78% of prevalence in India. Poor oral health in children leads to poor development due to malnutrition and affects overall general health. In this study, 6-8 year old children are included as this age group falls in the second window of infectivity making them more susceptible to caries. Thus, it is the need of the hour for a non-toxic, economical and herbal dental varnish to prevent dental caries from an early age.