Microbial Contamination of Toothbrush and Methods to Overcome - A Review

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DOI: 10.21522/TIJPH.2013.11.03.Art030

Authors : Murukesan S, Saranya varadarajan, Raghunathan Jagannathan, Swaminathan Rajendran, Deepika Rajendiran, Thodur Madapusi Balaji

Abstract:

Numerous microbes found in household toothbrushes can lead to contamination of the oral cavity. These microorganisms can survive on the toothbrush for several days or weeks. Several studies have found a link between tooth decay and toothbrush bacterial residues. As a result, toothbrush disinfection is critical for toothbrush and oral hygiene maintenance. Furthermore, brush disinfection is required to prevent disease transmission, especially in children, the elderly, and high-risk patients, such as those with immunodeficiency or undergoing organ transplants or chemotherapy. This paper aims to analyse various methods of decontaminating toothbrushes. Numerous techniques have been discussed in the literature regarding decontamination of toothbrushes between uses. However, no single completely efficacious technique has been found to the said effect. Therefore, the search is still on for a rapidly effective, cost-effective, nontoxic, and easily implementable suitable alternative.
Keywords: Chemical, Contamination, Decontamination, Physical, Toothbrush.

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