Potensi Larutan Ekstrak Etanol Kayu Secang (Caesalpinia Sappan Linn) dan Karbon Aaktif dari Arang Tempurung Kelapa (Activated charcoal from Coconut shell) Sebagai Bahan Bioactive Caries Detector Dye : Analisis Uji Fitokimia, Uji Antioksidan, Uji Antimikroba dan Uji Inhibitor MMP-1

Abstract

Background : Dental caries is the most prevalent infectious disease of the hard dental tissues in Indonesia and worldwide. The management of deep dentin caries lesions requires selective excavation methods to preserve pulp vitality and the integrity of the dentin-pulp complex. Caries Detecting Dye (CDD) plays a crucial role in distinguishing between infected dentin and dentin that can still be preserved. It also serves as an essential diagnostic tool for identifying occlusal caries and crown fractures. However, commercial CDD materials have limitations, such as lacking bioactivity, antibacterial properties, and the potential to cause irritation. Objective : This study aims to evaluate the potential of ethanol extract from sappan wood (Caesalpinia sappan Linn) combined with activated charcoal derived from coconut shell as a natural, bioactive alternative to conventional CDD. Sappan wood extract contains active compounds such as brazilin, flavonoids, and tannins, known for their antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. Methods : This was a laboratory experimental study using a post-test only control group design, conducted at the Laboratory of FMIPA Universitas Sumatera Utara and the Faculty of Dentistry, Syiah Kuala University. The study population consisted of permanent premolars and molars with dentin caries not reaching the pulp. Results : The results showed that the combination of ethanol extract of sappan wood and activated charcoal could accurately differentiate infected and affected dentin. It also demonstrated antibacterial activity against Streptococcus mutans and inhibitory effects on MMP-1, particularly at a 2% concentration, compared to commercial CDD. Thus, this solution can potentially serve as a natural, bioactive, environmentally friendly, and affordable caries-detecting dye. Conclusion : Ethanol extract of sappan wood contains active compounds (alkaloids, polyphenols, steroids, flavonoids, and brazilin) that provide antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects. It holds promise as a safe, bioactive, and natural alternative for use as caries-detecting dye in dentistry.