Effectiveness of different cleanser solutions on the microbial contamination of toothbrushes.

Abstract

Toothbrushes may become heavily contaminated with microorganisms; these microorganisms may originate not only from the oral cavity but also from the environment where the toothbrushes are stored. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of different antimicrobial cleanser solution such as chlorhexidine, hydrogen peroxide and salt solution with tap water as a control group. 32 individual were supplied with the same type and brand of new toothbrush and tubes of toothpaste, and asked them to follow their usual oral hygiene practice. After one week the toothbrushes were collected for assaying the microbial contamination. The result was concluded that the effectiveness of disinfectant solution of chlorhexidine and hydrogen peroxide was reduced the microbial growth as much as 87.5% and 75% respectively comparing with the salt solution which was 25%.