Background: P.gingivalis, P.intermedia and A.actinomycetemcomitans are strongly associated with chronic periodontitis. Guava leaf extract is a proven antibacterial agent for treating systemic bacterial infections. This study aims at evaluating Minimal Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and Minimal Bactericidal Concentration (MBC) ofguava leaf extract required against periodontal pathogens.
Material and Methods: For MIC, serial dilutions of extract were made in culture tubes and the periodontal pathogens were added to observe turbidity. For MBC, the same culture tubes were inoculated and incubated to observe for growth.
Results: MIC test showed that P.gingivalis and P.intermedia got inhibited at 0.4µg/ml concentration while A.actinomycetemcomitans was inhibited at 1.6µg/ml. MBC test showed that the extract was bactericidal to only P.intermedia which was at 12.5 µg/ml.
Conclusion: Guava leaf extract is effective against periodontal pathogens and can be used to treat periodontal diseases.