Original Research

Comparative Evaluation of Antimicrobial Efficacy of Silver Diamine Fluoride and Omega-3 Fatty Acids Against Streptococcus mutans - An In Vitro Study

Year: 2026
Volume: 11
Issue: 1
Pages: 1–9

Authors

Akshatha S¹, Priya Nagar², Shashidhara R³, Saranraj R⁴, Shashwath K⁵, Sonali Sukesh⁶

Corresponding Author

Dr. Akshatha S
Post Graduate, Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry
Coorg Institute of Dental Sciences, Virajpet, Karnataka, India
Email: akshathashiva123@gmail.com

Abstract

Background: Dental caries is a multifactorial disease strongly associated with Streptococcus mutans. Silver diamine fluoride (SDF) is widely used for caries control, but aesthetic concerns limit its acceptance. Omega-3 fatty acids have recently gained attention for their potential antimicrobial effects. Aim: To evaluate and compare the antimicrobial efficacy of SDF and omega-3 fatty acids against Streptococcus mutans. Materials and Methods: This in vitro study used an MTT assay to assess bacterial viability. Standardized cultures of Streptococcus mutans were treated with SDF and omega-3 fatty acids at concentrations of 100, 50, 25, and 12.5 µg/mL. Optical density (OD₅₆₀) was recorded. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA, Tukey post hoc test, and independent t-test, with significance set at p<0.001. Results: Both agents showed significant concentration-dependent antimicrobial activity. However, SDF demonstrated consistently lower OD values at all concentrations, indicating significantly higher antibacterial efficacy compared to omega-3 fatty acids. Conclusion: SDF remains the more potent antimicrobial agent, while omega-3 fatty acids show promising effects and may serve as a potential adjunct in caries management pending further clinical validation.

Keywords

Silver Diamine Fluoride, Omega-3 Fatty Acids, Streptococcus mutans, Dental Caries, Antimicrobial Agents, Pediatric Dentistry

How to Cite This Article

Akshatha S, Priya Nagar, Shashidhara R, Saranraj R, Shashwath K, Sonali Sukesh. Comparative Evaluation of Antimicrobial Efficacy of Silver Diamine Fluoride and Omega-3 Fatty Acids Against Streptococcus mutans - An In Vitro Study. Int J Pedo Rehab 2026;11(1):1–9.‍ ‍DOI: https://doi.org/10.56501/Intjpedorehab.111.ijped0020