الفهرس 
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Abstract
Toothbrushes harbor a high number of bacteria immediately after brushing; including Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans). Retention and survival of cariogenic microorganisms on toothbrushes represent a possible cause of recontamination of the mouth. Daily use of contaminated toothbrushes can contribute to disseminate microorganisms within the oral cavity of an individual or between different family members. Antimicrobial solutions can be used as one of toothbrush disinfection aids.
The objective of this study was to compare the efficacy of two types of mouth rinse sprays; Periogard (which contains 0.12% chlorhexidine gluconate) and Plax (which contains 0.03% triclosan) in inhibiting the growth of S. mutans on toothbrush bristles used by children.
Sixty children were enrolled in this study. selected from the outpatient clinic of Pediatric Dentistry Department, Faculty of Dentistry, Alexandria University. They were (32) 53.3% males and (28) 46.7% females. Their ages ranged from 6-8 years (early mixed dentition), all primary and first permanent molars were present with high caries level [dmfs and DMFS more than 5]. They did not receive antibiotic treatment for a period of 30 days and instructed them not to brush their teeth one day before sample collection.
A signed informed consent was obtained from all children’s parents and the study was approved by Pediatric Dentistry Department and the Ethical Committee of the Faculty of Dentistry, Alexandria University.
For each child, teeth were brushed by the author for one minute using roll technique. A new toothbrush and standardized size of fluoridated tooth paste were used for each child.
Toothbrushes were divided into three groups (20 each) according to materials used to disinfect it. In group I, toothbrushes were rinsed by distilled water only. In group II, toothbrushes were rinsed by distilled water then sprayed by Periogard while in group III toothbrushes were sprayed by Plax after distilled water rinse.