Antimicrobial action of experimental dentifrices based on essential oils dentifrices against Candida albicans

To evaluate the antimicrobial action of experimental dentifrices for denture cleaning based on essential oils (Ricinus communis, Melaleuca alternifólia, Pinus strobus, Copaifera officinalis, Curcuma longa, Eucalyptus citriodora e Bowdichia virgilioides Kunthe) against Candida albicans (Ca), by microbial growth inhibition halos and Colony Forming Units (CFU) count. Ca inoculum (106UFC / mL) was seeded in medium and wells were made for addition of 100L of Placebo, Conventional (Trihydral – Positive Control) and experimental dentifrices. After incubation, halos were measured. Thermopolymerizable acrylic resin specimens were inoculated (107UFC / ml) and distributed into the 9 groups for brushing during 3 minutes, microbiologically processed, for CFU counting. All dentifrices presented inhibition halos against Ca. In the CFU count the Kruskal-Wallis test showed significant difference (p <0.05), Melaleuca alternifolia (p = 0.103) and Pinus strobus (p = 0.068) were similar to the positive control. It was concluded that Melaleuca alternifolia and Pinus strobus were effective.