Could our toothbrushes be contaminated by escherichia coli colonies ?

Abstract EN

Aims: To assess the possibility of toothbrushes contamination by E.

Coli and its association with oral hygiene habits and environmental conditions.

Materials and methods: Sixty patients, who attended at the International University for Science and Technology (IUST) clinics, were supplied with new toothbrushs and the same toothpaste.

After twoweeks of using them, the toothbrushes were collected and examined for E.Coli contamination using MacConkey agar media.

All participants were asked to answer a group of questions to their oral hygiene practices status.

Results: This study shows that most participants kept their toothbrush in bathroom and in an open area; also, most of these toothbrushes were contaminated by E.Coli colonies.

Conclusion: Toothbrushes should be replaced and disinfected regularly to reduce toothbrush contamination which may be important in the control of several oral diseases.