PENGARUH PASTA GIGI DENGAN KANDUNGAN BUAH STROBERI ( Fragaria chiloensis L.) TERHADAP PEMBENTUKAN PLAK GIGI

Abstract

Background: Strawberry (Fragaria chiloensis L.) contains polyphenols which consists of ellagic acid, anthocyanins and catechin. Catechin has the efficacy to prevent the occurrence of dental caries. The main cause of dental caries occurrence is dental plaque. Catechin could prevent the formation of dental plaque by inhibiting the activity of glucosyltransferase enzymes (GTFs) and kill the growth of bacteria such as Streptococcus mutans. Strawberry also contains pectin (a natural fiber), which is self-cleansing of the teeth. Methods: This research used the post test only control group design that was implemented in the Pondok Pesantren al-Hadi Qosim, Jl. Kuripan RT 02 RW 01 kel. Wonolopo, Mijen, Semarang. The sample was divided into two groups: control group (each student brushed their teeth using toothpaste without content strawberry) and treatment group (each student brushed their teeth using toothpaste containing strawberry). Independent variable was toothpaste containing strawberries and dependent variable was dental plaque. Analysis of the data processed by a computer program and the level of significance accepted when p <0.05. Results: T test showed that there was a significant difference (p<0,05) between control and treatment group. Conclusion: The use of toothpaste containing strawberry can reduce a score of plaque on tooth surfaces more than the toothpaste without content strawberry. Key words: strawberry (Fragaria chiloensis L.), dental plaque, toothpaste