An In vitro Analysis of the Effects of Iron Sulfate and Iron Acetate on Streptococcus mutans

Statement of problem: Dental caries is a common infectious disease induced by Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans). Objectives: Due to the high incidence rate of dental caries and iron deficiency in the Iranian population, we have conducted this study to analyze the effects of iron acetate and iron sulfate on controlling the growth of S. mutans. Materials and Methods: In this in vitro study, we evaluated the antibacterial effects of iron sulfate and iron acetate on S. mutans by the disk diffusion method, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC). The results were compared to those for 0.2% chlorhexidine and penicillin as the controls. Results: Iron sulfate had higher MIC and MBC values compared to penicillin and chlorhexidine (P<0.001). Iron acetate MIC and MBC values did not significantly differ with penicillin and chlorhexidine. The iron sulfate inhibition zones at the 25 and 50 μg/mL doses were more than those of iron acetate. Conclusions: Iron sulfate and iron acetate solutions can inhibit the growth of S. mutans. Hence, different compounds that contain iron salts such as toothpastes, mouth washes, and food supplements can be produced to prevent dental caries and iron deficiency.