Background: Streptococcus mutans is the leading cause of dental caries. One of many medicinal plants, purple leaf [Graptophyllum pictum (L.) Griff], which contains flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, steroids, and saponins, is a potential antibacterial agent. Objective: This study aimed to determine the antibacterial activity of purple leaf extract (Graptophyllum pictum L. Griff) against Streptococcus mutans. Methods: Streptococcus mutans were suspended in several Graptophyllum pictum (L.) Griff extract concentrations in a BHIB medium using the dilution method so that the concentration of 100%, 50%, 25%, 12.5%, 6.25%, 3.12%, 1.56%, 0.78% were obtained. Each tube was incubated for 24 hours, then subcultured in a Tryptone Yeast Extract Cystine medium in a petri dish using a spreader. Each petri dish was set for 24 hours; the growth of the colony, using CFU/mL unit, was manually calculated. The samples were then subjected to microbiological analysis. The Tukey's Honest Significant Difference test was performed to determine if the relationship between the sets of data in the treatment group is statistically significant (p<0.05). Results: Purple leaf extract contains bioactive compounds such as flavonoid, alkaloid, tannin, triterpenoid/ steroid, and saponin. The Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) of Graptophyllum pictum (L.) Griff against Streptococcus mutans was in concentration 3.125%, and the Minimum Bactericidal Concentration (MBC) was in concentration 6.25%. Conclusion Purple Leaf Extract [Graptophyllum pictum (L.) Griff] has antibacterial activity against Streptococcus mutans.
Medicine ; Phytochemicals ; Streptococcus mutans

Dental esthetic problems in young adolescents such as undesirable tooth shape, color, size and position may affect psychosocial interaction and self-confidence of a person, thus the need for dental treatment. Recent composite resin materials offer a vast range of shades that perfectly emulate natural tooth. The aim of this procedure is to improve the appearance of the teeth using direct partial composite veneer due to its minimally invasive and time efficiency characteristics.
Adolescent

A male elderly patient came with buccal mucosa swelling associated with tooth 46 and 47. Periapical radiograph confirmed the presence of periapical lesion and narrow root canals on both teeth. Challenging impediments were sensed upon negotiating most of the narrow root canals which were common in elderly patients. Glide path creation involved pre-flaring, K-file bending, watch winding movement, and very gentle strokes. After achieving patency, shaping, cleaning, and sealing phase can be performed.
Aged ; Negotiating