Annals and Essences of Dentistry
Open Access

Abstract

A COMPARATIVE EVALUATION OF ALTERNATIVE DISINFECTANTS TO DECONTAMINATE TOOTH BRUSH

Malini Venugopal, Korath Abraham, Ektah Khosla, Arun Roy James, Elza Thenumkal

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of alternative methods for toothbrush disinfection. Methods - 50 children of age grp 6-12yrs were included in the study. The new toothbrushes were given to children and were asked to brush in the morning and nigh for 1week under the supervision of parents. 2% chlorhexidine, 100% and 50% synthetic vinegar, 25% eucalyptus oil were tested. The head of both morning and night toothbrush were covered with sterile gauze and immediately transferred to microbiology department for microbial decontamination efficacy testing. Results :All disinfectant solutions used had equal antimicobial action for tooth brush disinfection. No difference in colonies or antimicrobial efficacy was seen between different disinfectants and morning and night toothbrush. Conclusion- These agents can be cost-effective, easily accessible, and comparatively effective for toothbrush disinfection. Because these agents are nontoxic, cost-effective and easily accessible, they may be appropriate for household use.

Published Date: 2017-12-31;