Frequent brushing of teeth inhibits the dissemination of the SARS-CoV-2: the biochemical mechanism.

Abstract

The SARS-CoV-2 virus is primarily transmitted through direct or indirect contact with the mucous membranes of the mouth and nostrils. The presence of SARS-CoV-2 in sputum with a high viral load suggested that maintaining good oral hygiene could be critical in limiting COVID-19 disease. Brushing the teeth frequently and regularly with widely available amphiphilic detergent, sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS)-based toothpastes could help in preventing the spread of SARS-CoV-2. We proposed a community survey-based methodology followed by an in vitro biochemical strategy to test the virucidal potentiality of SLS, an amphiphilic detergent found in these toothpastes. Through biomolecular structure and docking analysis using models of spike protein and SLS, we showed a possible molecular mechanism of action for SLS-enabled viral particle inactivation.