The primary pathogen for dental caries is considered to be Streptococcus mutans. Streptococcus mutans glucosyltransferase (GTF) is considered a cariogenic virulence factor owing to the ability to synthesise glucan, which facilitates sucrose dependent adherence and cell-to-cell accumulation of bacteria. Studies have demonstrated the importance of glucan synthesis by Streptococcus mutans in the pathogenesis of dental caries. Glucan synthesised in a salivary pellicle promotes selective adherence and accumulation of cariogenic streptococci on human teeth. Glucan increases the volume and porosity of biofilm, which enables more substrates to diffuse to enamel surfaces. Acidogenic bacteria in the deeper layers of the dental biofilm produce more acid from substrates and hydrogen ions diffuse through the porous biofilm more rapidly, which enhances the development of dental caries. Fluoride therapy is the corner stone of caries preventive strategies. The effect of fluoride on the Streptococcus mutans counts has been demonstrated by studies. Various herbal extracts like chamomile, ocimum and Echinacea are known to provide therapeutic benefits in the oral cavity when used topically. The need of the study is to determine whether there is any variation in Streptococcus mutans counts, glucan synthesis by Streptococcus mutans and dental caries among school children who receive herbal and fluoride mouth rinses. A randomized controlled trial will be conducted in randomly selected schools in Mangalore and the study sample will comprise of 225 schoolchildren who fulfil the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Streptococcus mutans will be identified by using biochemical tests (Catalase test and sugar fermentation). Glucan synthesis by streptococcus mutans will be evaluated by Phenol sulphuric acid method. Caries assessment will done using International Caries Detection and Assessment System (ICDAS).