Why choose the Home Toothbrush Test Kit?
The usual method of sample collection for an AlphaBiolabs’ DNA test is to rub a mouth swab on the inside of the donor’s cheek to collect cheek (buccal) cells. The DNA is then extracted from the cells when the swabs are returned to the laboratory for testing.
A major advantage of AlphaBiolabs’ toothbrush DNA test is that samples can be collected in a more subtle way. This type of test is more suited towards children and younger donors because they don’t need to be made aware that a test is being undertaken. All you need to do is simply send in their regular used toothbrush. Such a discreet method may be particularly beneficial in the case of a paternity dispute, for example, where using a mouth swab on older children could lead to awkward questions.
As well as its use in childhood, another advantage of toothbrush DNA testing is to gain a DNA profile from an individual who has passed away.
This is because DNA cannot be collected from cheek cells using a mouth swab in deceased individuals. However, DNA can be collected from the deceased’s used toothbrush (as long as next of kin provide consent). A DNA profile from a toothbrush DNA test could be a lasting memento of a loved one, or even turned into a piece of art.
Toothbrushes contain DNA
Our in-house DNA experts have undertaken viability studies to prove that used toothbrushes can be a good source of DNA. The method of brushing and type of toothpaste used has no effect on the results. Simply send us your used toothbrush and if we can get a DNA profile from it, we can perform a DNA relationship test of your choice (fee applies).
As soon as the toothbrushes arrive at our laboratory, DNA is extracted from the toothbrush. We use one of the newest DNA extraction techniques available to ensure a high level of precision. If our scientists can retrieve a profile, we can perform a DNA relationship test in the usual way (fees apply). The toothbrush DNA will be analyzed for up to 42 DNA markers, making it one of the most accurate DNA tests on the market.
If a DNA profile cannot be retrieved from the toothbrush, we will contact you and arrange to return the cost of the DNA relationship test. However, a refund will not be possible for the viability study on the toothbrush due to the laboratory work already undertaken.
The results of the viability study can be made available in up to 5 working days. The results of the DNA relationship test will then take a further 3–5 working days.
Simply send a dry, used toothbrush
You can send your used, dry toothbrushes into our laboratory using the sample envelope contained in the testing kit. It’s important that the toothbrushes are not cleaned before being sent. We can also accept electric toothbrushes: just send us the head, not the whole toothbrush. The type of toothpaste used, or the tooth brushing technique have no effect on the DNA extracted.
As soon as the toothbrushes arrive at our laboratory for DNA testing the first step is to extract the DNA from the sample. If a profile can be retrieved, a DNA relationship test can be performed in the same way as mouth swab DNA testing. The DNA profile will be analyzed for up to 35 DNA Short Tandem Repeats (STR) markers, making it one of the most accurate DNA tests on the market.
STR markers are specific locations on a chromosome made up of sequences of repeated DNA. These STR markers are highly variable in length between individuals. DNA relationship tests are completed by comparing the observed DNA profiles from a group of people and considering the probability of any potential relationships. Paternity tests are completed by comparing the STR markers seen in the child with those seen in the possible parents.
Kits are shipped quickly
We mail out your kit the same day you order it. You can choose to receive your kit by USPS Standard or Express Mail.
As soon as AlphaBiolabs receives your DNA samples in our lab we begin the testing process. The results of the viability study can be made available in up to 5 working days. The results of the DNA relationship test will then take a further 3–5 working days.
Our normal procedure is to send the results by email, but for an additional fee we can send you a hard copy as well. Check the product options.
$195 plus the cost of the required relationship test
The cost of the viability study for DNA toothbrush testing is $195. The cost of the required DNA relationship test then needs to be added on top of this if a DNA profile can be retrieved from the toothbrush.
We need consent for toothbrush testing
Yes, consent must be provided for all toothbrush samples that are sent in to be analyzed. Next of kin or another qualifying relative can sign consent for an individual who has died. A parent or guardian must provide consent for a child under 16 years of age.
What is peace of mind testing?
AlphaBiolabs offer peace of mind testing with all of our DNA test kits.
This simply means that the sample collection can be done more quickly and easily for your convenience. In most cases your DNA sample can be collected privately at home without the need to have a more costly and time consuming third-party verify the DNA sample collection.
The testing procedure and your accurate results are exactly the same as a chain of control test, but are not admissible in court proceedings.
A guaranteed result or your money back
If a DNA profile cannot be retrieved from the toothbrush, we will contact you and arrange to return the cost of the DNA relationship test. However, a refund will not be possible for the viability study on the toothbrush due to the laboratory work already undertaken.
