Comparative Efficacy of Chlorhexidine and Fluorine Total Mouthwashes Against Candida albicans and Streptococcus sanguinis

Background: Candidiasis, primarily caused by Candida albicans (C. albicans), is the most common fungal and opportunistic infection of the oral cavity. Streptococcus sanguinis (S. sanguinis) also plays a significant role in infectious endocarditis and various dental diseases. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of chlorhexidine (CHX) and fluorine total (FT) mouthwashes on C. albicans and S. sanguinis. Methods: In this laboratory-based experimental study, 40 samples were analyzed. A 0.5 McFarland standard concentration of S. sanguinis (1.5 × 108 CFU/mL) and a 0.5 McFarland standard concentration of C. albicans (0.5 × 106 CFU/mL) were cultured using the spread method on 18 blood agar plates and 18 Sabouraud Dextrose Agar (SDA) plates, respectively. The inhibition zones were measured and compared between CHX and FT treatments. The inclusion criteria specified samples from individuals aged 18 - 65, with exclusions for those who had taken antibiotics within the past month. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25, with statistical significance determined by t-tests. Results: The mean inhibition zone for C. albicans was 2.41 ± 0.17 mm with CHX and 1.47 ± 0.08 mm with FT. For S. sanguinis, the inhibition zone was 17.96 ± 0.11 mm with CHX and 12.13 ± 0.18 mm with FT. Chlorhexidine showed significantly greater inhibitory effects than FT (P 0.001). Conclusions: Chlorhexidine demonstrated superior efficacy over FT against both microorganisms, indicating that CHX may be more effective for therapeutic use in controlling C. albicans and S. sanguinis infections.