Extracted teeth, whether saved for personal collections, educational display, or for use in dental research, require careful handling to ensure they are safe and preserved over the long term. Cleaning and sanitizing an extracted tooth is a multi-step procedure that must address the inherent biohazard risk of human tissue. Proper preparation ensures all organic remnants are removed and potential pathogens are eliminated, creating a stable specimen that maintains its structural integrity. This methodical approach transforms a biological specimen into a safe, non-infectious object ready for handling and study.
Initial Safety and Preparation
Extracted teeth are classified as regulated medical waste because they are potentially infectious materials contaminated with blood and other body fluids. Handling the teeth requires adherence to universal precautions to prevent the transmission of bloodborne pathogens. Before cleaning, establish a dedicated, non-porous workspace that can be thoroughly disinfected afterward.
The use of personal protective equipment (PPE) minimizes the risk of exposure to infectious materials and cleaning agents. This includes wearing disposable, medical-grade gloves and protective eyewear, such as safety glasses or a face shield, to guard against potential splashes. If cleaning is not performed immediately, the tooth must be kept moist to prevent dehydration and cracking of the surface enamel and dentin. A simple solution like water or saline in a securely sealed container is sufficient for temporary storage.
Mechanical Removal of Soft Tissue
The first physical step involves the thorough removal of all organic material adhering to the root surface and within the pulp chamber. This includes the periodontal ligament, blood clots, and any remaining pulp tissue inside the root canal system. Removing this soft tissue is necessary because it harbors microorganisms and prevents chemical disinfectants from reaching the tooth’s surface completely.
A stiff-bristled brush and mild dish detergent should be used to scrub the outer enamel and cementum surfaces, loosening the initial debris. Non-metallic tools are recommended for tissue removal to avoid scratching the dentin and cementum. A wooden toothpick, a small plastic dental pick, or the non-sharp end of a plastic floss pick can be carefully used to scrape the root surface and access the pulp chamber opening.
The pulp chamber must be flushed thoroughly with running water or saline solution to remove dislodged tissue fragments. This mechanical cleaning must be completed entirely before moving to the chemical stage, as disinfectants work best on a surface free of bulk organic contamination.
Chemical Disinfection and Sanitization
Once physical debris is removed, chemical disinfection is necessary to eliminate remaining bacteria and pathogens for safe, long-term handling. The most common and effective agent is diluted household bleach, which typically contains 5.25% to 6% sodium hypochlorite. A solution of one part bleach to ten parts water (a 1:10 dilution) is a standard concentration recommended for disinfection.
Sodium hypochlorite works as a powerful proteolytic agent that actively dissolves organic tissues by breaking down proteins and lipids. It effectively dissolves the remnants of the pulp tissue and periodontal ligament. Soaking the tooth in this solution for 12 to 24 hours is often sufficient for initial disinfection, although some protocols recommend up to a week for sterilization.
An alternative disinfectant is a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution, which acts as a strong oxidizing agent. Peroxide generates free radicals that attack the organic components of the dentin and enamel, helping to break down residual proteins and neutralize microorganisms. Avoid harsh chemical treatments like concentrated acids or high-heat methods such as boiling, which can compromise the tooth structure by making the dentin brittle or causing micro-cracks. Teeth that contain dental amalgam fillings should not be exposed to high heat, as it can release toxic mercury vapor.
Long-Term Preservation and Storage
After the chemical soak, the tooth must be rinsed thoroughly under running water to remove all traces of the disinfecting solution. Residual chemicals can continue to react with the tooth structure, potentially leading to discoloration or structural changes. The tooth should then air-dry completely in an open, dust-free environment for several days to ensure all internal moisture is removed.
Once fully disinfected and dry, the tooth is stable and does not require a wet storage medium, which could encourage mold or bacterial growth. Optimal storage involves placing the specimen in a sealed, clear container, such as a glass vial or a small plastic box, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperature fluctuations. Storing the tooth in a dark, dry environment at room temperature helps to minimize the natural yellowing that occurs when dentin is exposed to light.
For display purposes, the cleaned and dried tooth can be professionally embedded in a clear acrylic or epoxy resin. This method offers a stable, permanent way to display the tooth and protects it from environmental damage.