Exploring the Stability, Molecular Integrity and Potent Ex Vivo Antimicrobial Efficacy of a Catechin-enriched Effervescent Denture Cleanser

Denture-associated stomatitis is primarily driven by persistent microbial biofilm accumulation on prosthetic surfaces. Bioactive phytocompounds such as catechins from Camellia sinensis possess documented antimicrobial and antioxidant properties; however, their translation into stable effervescent denture-cleansing formulations remains insufficiently characterized. This study aimed to assess the antimicrobial performance of UV-standardized aqueous Camellia sinensis extract on patient-derived dentures under ex vivo conditions and to develop and evaluate a catechinenriched effervescent tablet by examining its physicochemical, spectroscopic, antimicrobial, cytocompatibility and structural stability characteristics. The formulated effervescent tablets showed consistent dimensional accuracy, hardness (4.83 ± 0.22 kg cm⁻²), friability (0.12 ± 0.02%), rapid disintegration (40 ± 2 s), complete effervescence (88 ± 3.2 s) and mildly acidic pH (5.38 ± 0.10), consistent with effervescent formulation requirements. Spectroscopic analysis showed retention of the characteristic catechin functional groups, with no major spectral changes attributable to interactions with formulation excipients. The reconstituted solution showed a minimum inhibitory concentration of 0.9 µg mL⁻¹ against both organisms and maintained >90% fibroblast viability (IC₅₀ = 467.3 µg mL⁻¹). Sequential ex vivo and in vitro analyses showed that UV-standardized aqueous Camellia sinensis extract retained antimicrobial potency and can be incorporated into an effervescent tablet that is rapidly dispersible, structurally stable and biocompatible, with appreciable antimicrobial activity, supporting its suitability as a denture-cleansing formulation. Further investigations using advanced biofilm models and clinical conditions are warranted to validate long-term efficacy.