Is an alleged father or child unavailable to participate in a standard cheek swab DNA test? Toothbrush samples may provide an alternative way to help determine whether a biological relationship exists between a father and child when a standard cheek swab collection is no longer possible.
Toothbrush DNA testing is an alternative relationship testing option used to help determine whether a parent and child, siblings, or grandparents and grandchildren are biologically related. All DNA samples are tested and analyzed by our partner accredited laboratory. At-home toothbrush DNA testing is performed for peace-of-mind purposes and cannot be used for legal matters because a proper chain of custody cannot be established.
IDTO DNA has more than 22 years of experience providing relationship DNA testing services nationwide. Our focus is to provide accurate and reliable relationship DNA testing while maintaining professional communication throughout the process. We help clients avoid confusion, unnecessary delays, and weeks of uncertainty by providing clear guidance before, during, and after the DNA testing process.
What Are the Common Reasons Toothbrush DNA Testing Is Performed?
In our experience coordinating DNA testing cases since 2004, Toothbrush DNA testing is most commonly requested under the following circumstances:
- The alleged father is deceased.
- One of the participants is unavailable for a cheek swab collection.
- A participant refuses to cooperate with testing.
- Toothbrush samples were preserved before death.
- Standard DNA sample collection is no longer possible.
How much does DNA Testing using a toothbrush cost?
Pricing starts at $299.99. Learn more about our toothbrush DNA testing options here.
How Does At-Home DNA Testing Process Work:
Step 1.
Click here to purchase a kit online or contact our office at 888-204-0583 to purchase an IDTO Home Toothbrush DNA test kit.
Step 2.
After you purchase your kit, the kit will be shipped within 24 hours of purchase.
Step 3.
Once you receive your Home DNA test kit. Please read and follow the instructions carefully.
Step 4.
After you collect your samples and complete the consent form. Place all of the items inside your prepaid return shipping envelope going back to the lab.
Step 5.
When all samples arrive at the laboratory testing will begin. The average turnaround for your results will be 2 to 3 days.
Step 6.
Upon the completion of your results, a copy of your results will sent to your home and a copy will be sent to your email.
What is included inside of my Home DNA Test kit?
When you purchase a home test kit from IDTO DNA Testing Center, the following items will be included:
- Consent Form: This form allows you to list the names of the parties involved in your DNA paternity test.
- Cheek Swab Packet: Includes one cheek swab packet for collecting DNA samples for the participant not submitting a toothbrush sample.
- Sample Collection Envelopes: For securely storing and sending your samples.
- Sample Collection Instructions: Detailed steps on how to collect your samples properly.
- Pre-Paid Return Envelope: For shipping your samples back to the lab at no additional cost.
How do you collect a toothbrush sample for DNA Testing?
Collecting a toothbrush sample requires more care than collecting a cotton buccal swab sample. Below are essential steps to ensure successful collection:
- Usage Duration: Ensure that the toothbrush has been used consistently for a minimum of 6 weeks.\
- Drying the Sample: Air dry the toothbrush sample before placing it into a paper envelope.\
- Labeling and Storage: Label the envelope clearly and keep the sample at room temperature. Do not use a plastic bag, as it may contaminate the sample, rendering it unusable for analysis.\
- Shipping the Sample: After collecting your toothbrush sample, place it in your prepaid shipping envelope to return to the lab.
If you have any questions, please contact our office directly at 888-204-0583.
Important Note:
Due to the New York State Dept of Health guidelines residents of New York State are unable to purchase this or any Home DNA Testing option.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to receive my DNA results?
The average turnaround for results to be completed within 2 to 3 business days from the date the lab receives all DNA samples.
Upon the completion of your results a copy of your results will be mailed to your home and an additional copy will be emailed to you.
Are At-Home DNA Toothbrush Test results accurate?
Yes. When a usable DNA profile can be recovered from a toothbrush samples, the same genetic analysis methods used for cheek swab testing are applied by our partner accredited laboratory.
However, the ability to obtain a DNA profile depends largely on the condition of the toothbrush specimen submitted. Recent use, proper storage, and avoiding moisture contamination help increase the likelihood that the laboratory will recover a complete DNA profile
Whenever possible, we recommend cheek swab DNA testing because it remains the preferred specimen type for relationship DNA testing.
Can a DNA Test Kit be shipped to different locations?
DNA test kits can be shipped to different locations. Selecting the option for shipping to multiple locations during checkout allows you to provide a secondary address through email communication.
Can a Paternity Test Using a Toothbrush Be Used for Legal Purposes?
No. Home Toothbrush Forensic DNA tests cannot be used for legal purposes. This testing option is for informational use only.
Contact us at 888-204-0583 if you require legal DNA testing today.
Can toothpaste affect DNA test?
Toothpaste residue and prolonged exposure to moisture may affect the quality of DNA recovered from a toothbrush. For this reason, we recommend allowing the toothbrush to air dry before placing it inside a paper envelope and shipping it to the laboratory as soon as possible. Learn more about to avoiding common mistake performing toothbrush DNA test here.
Are my DNA results kept private?
Yes. IDTO DNA and its partner laboratory do not share any personal or genetic information with third-party companies.
All information provided to our partner laboratory is kept secure and will only be released to third parties with the explicit consent of the participants involved or by court order. Specimen samples on file are kept for an average of 3 months, then destroyed.
Can an Electric Toothbrush Be Used for DNA Testing?
Yes. The toothbrush head from an electric toothbrush may be submitted for DNA analysis. We recommend allowing the toothbrush head to air dry and placing it inside a paper envelope before shipping it to the laboratory.
Why Choose Us IDTO DNA
IDTO DNA has helped thousands of families with their At-Home Toothbrush DNA Testing needs. Since 2004, we have been a trusted source for both legal and medical professionals seeking reliable DNA testing for their clients.
Our knowledgeable staff will guide you in selecting the right type of genetic test for your specific situation. This careful attention to detail helps prevent ordering the wrong relationship test and avoids the need to pay for additional testing.
