Abstract
Objective: To evaluate the inhibitory potential of Potentilla bifurca L. concentrated extract against Streptococcus mutans biofilm formation in vitro and to develop a stable pharmaceutical gel formulation as a carrier for this active extract. Methods: The antibiofilm activity of the extract at concentrations of 1.0, 2.5, and 5.0 mg/ml was assessed using a crystal violet colorimetric assay. For the pharmaceutical development stage, three gel bases were prepared (sodium CMC, Carbopol® 940, and sodium alginate) to incorporate the extract. The optimal formulation was selected based on organoleptic properties, pH stability, and rheological parameters, including viscosity and thixotropy via hysteresis loop analysis. Results: The extract demonstrated significant dose-dependent inhibition of S. mutans biofilm formation, reaching 94% inhibition at 5.0 mg/ml (p<0.05). Rheological evaluation identified 2% sodium CMC as the optimal base for the dental gel, providing superior pseudoplastic behavior and structural recovery (thixotropy), which are critical for effective topical delivery application and prolonged retention of the active extract on oral surfaces. Conclusion: While the P. bifurca extract exhibits potent in vitro antibiofilm activity, the developed sodium CMC-based gel provides the necessary rheological stability for its potential clinical application. This study highlights the formulation as a promising delivery system for natural anticariogenic agents.