The quest for natural alternatives to synthetic agents in dentistry has led to a growing interest in herbal antioxidants. These compounds, derived from various plant sources, possess potential benefits for oral health due to their ability to neutralize reactive oxygen species (ROS) and mitigate oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is implicated in a range of dental conditions, including periodontal disease, dental caries, and oral mucosal lesions. This mini review aims to elucidate the role of herbal antioxidants in dental care, focusing on their applications, efficacy, and potential advantages over conventional treatments.

To provide a comprehensive overview of herbal antioxidants used in dental care, highlighting their mechanisms of action, clinical applications, and effectiveness based on current research.

A literature review was conducted using databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Studies and reviews published in the last two decades were selected for their relevance to herbal antioxidants in dentistry. The review encompasses various plant-derived antioxidants, their biological activities, and their impact on dental health.

Herbal antioxidants, including compounds from green tea, pomegranate, turmeric, and gingko biloba, have demonstrated significant anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and tissue-protective properties. For instance, green tea polyphenols have been shown to reduce plaque formation and improve gum health by inhibiting bacterial growth and lowering inflammation. Pomegranate extract exhibits strong antibacterial effects and promotes the healing of oral mucosal lesions. Turmeric, with its active component curcumin, provides potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits, potentially aiding in the management of periodontal disease. Gingko biloba has shown promise in enhancing oral tissue repair and reducing oxidative damage.

The incorporation of herbal antioxidants in dental practice offers several advantages, including reduced side effects compared to synthetic agents, enhanced biocompatibility, and additional therapeutic benefits beyond basic oral health maintenance. However, challenges such as standardization of herbal products, variability in potency, and the need for more extensive clinical trials remain. Current evidence supports the beneficial role of these natural compounds in dental care, but further research is essential to fully establish their efficacy and safety.

This study aims to develop and evaluate fast disintegrating films and tablets of Valsartan, an angiotensin II receptor blocker used in the management of hypertension and heart failure. The goal is to enhance patient compliance and therapeutic efficacy by providing a rapid and convenient dosage form that disintegrates quickly in the oral cavity.

The formulation of Valsartan was carried out using two different dosage forms: fast disintegrating films and tablets. Various excipients such as superdisintegrants, binders, and film-forming agents were selected based on their compatibility with Valsartan and their ability to promote rapid disintegration. For the films, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) were utilized as film-forming polymers, combined with superdisintegrants like croscarmellose sodium and sodium starch glycolate. For the tablets, similar superdisintegrants were employed alongside direct compression techniques.

Formulation Process:

Fast Disintegrating Films: The films were prepared using solvent casting methods. The polymers and superdisintegrants were dissolved in a suitable solvent to form a homogeneous solution, which was then cast onto a Petri dish and dried to obtain films of uniform thickness. Various formulations were tested to optimize the film thickness, disintegration time, and mechanical strength.

Fast Disintegrating Tablets: Tablets were formulated using direct compression techniques. The active pharmaceutical ingredient (Valsartan) was mixed with excipients and compressed into tablets. The formulations were designed to achieve rapid disintegration, utilizing superdisintegrants to enhance the tablet’s breakdown in the oral cavity.

Evaluation Parameters:

Disintegration Time: The disintegration time of both films and tablets was assessed using the disintegration test apparatus, measuring the time required for the dosage form to break down in the simulated oral environment.

Mechanical Properties: For films, parameters such as tensile strength and elongation at break were evaluated to ensure adequate handling and resistance during storage and use. For tablets, hardness and friability tests were conducted to confirm their structural integrity.

Dissolution Profile: The dissolution rate of Valsartan from both dosage forms was measured to determine the release profile and to ensure that the drug is released effectively in the oral cavity.

Stability Testing: Stability studies were performed to assess the physical and chemical stability of the films and tablets over a specified period under various environmental conditions.

The fast disintegrating films exhibited a rapid disintegration time, with optimal formulations achieving complete disintegration within 30 seconds. The mechanical properties of the films were satisfactory, with good tensile strength and flexibility. The tablets also demonstrated rapid disintegration, with times comparable to the films. The dissolution profiles indicated efficient drug release from both dosage forms, ensuring therapeutic efficacy. Stability studies confirmed that both films and tablets maintained their integrity and potency over the storage period.