Efficacy of BioMin F and NovaMin toothpastes against *streptococcus mutans*: an *in vitro* study

Objective: This in vitro study evaluated the antibacterial efficacy of BioMin F and NovaMin toothpastes against recently isolated Streptococcus mutans compared with a commonly used fluoride toothpaste. Materials and methods: Streptococcus mutans was isolated from dental plaque of children with dental caries and cultured on Mueller–Hinton medium in 20 Petri dishes (three wells per dish: BioMin F, NovaMin, Signal). After 24 h incubation, inhibition zones were measured. Statistical analysis was performed (see statistical methods). Results: BioMin F had the largest mean inhibition zone diameter (x̄ = 2.67 mm) versus NovaMin and Signal (x̄ = 0.39 mm and x̄ = 2.19 mm; p < 0.001 for each pairwise comparison). Conclusion: BioMin F showed superior antibacterial effect against Streptococcus mutans compared to Signal and NovaMin, with NovaMin showing the lowest effect. BioMin F may be recommended as a preventive measure to reduce caries risk, pending further research.