Evaluating sanitization of toothbrushes using ultra violet rays and 0.2% chlorhexidine solution: A comparative...

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Dental Hygiene
• Infection Control

Background:

• Toothbrushes are crucial for plaque control.
• Proper toothbrush storage, disinfection, and replacement are essential for oral hygiene.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the effectiveness of 0.2% chlorhexidine (CHX) gluconate and UV toothbrush sanitizers for toothbrush disinfection.

Main Methods:

• Fifteen subjects used new toothbrushes for 7 days.
• Toothbrushes were divided into three groups: 0.2% CHX soak, UV light sanitizer, and normal saline soak.
• Microbial analysis determined the mean bacterial count before and after disinfection.

Main Results:

• All disinfection methods (CHX, UV, saline) significantly reduced bacterial counts (P < 0.007).
• UV light treatment resulted in a drastic reduction in mean bacterial count (P = 0.001).

Conclusions:

• Chlorhexidine, UV rays, and normal saline effectively reduce bacteria on toothbrushes.
• UV light disinfection proved more effective than CHX and normal saline for toothbrushes.