New toothbrush uses brushing-generated electricity to kill harmful bacteria

Researchers have developed a toothbrush whose specialised polymer bristles generate an electric charge while brushing, damaging bacteria linked to dental disease, ERR reports.

Scientists at Peking University in China tested the brush in laboratory experiments and in a three-month clinical study involving about 100 volunteers. The bristles generate a charge when they bend, producing highly reactive oxygen compounds in saliva. These compounds damage bacterial cell membranes and interfere with bacteria’s ability to transport nutrients.

In laboratory tests, a stronger version of the new brush killed 52 percent of bacteria associated with tooth decay and 78 percent of bacteria that cause gum inflammation. A conventional nylon brush killed about 8 to 9 percent of harmful bacteria.

After three months, volunteers using the new brush had noticeably less plaque, gum inflammation and bleeding. The material retained its properties and did not damage tooth enamel or human cells, the study found.

The findings were published in the journal Science Advances.