Solar Toothbrush: And no, it’s not what you are thinking…

The direction that technology takes never ceases to amaze me. Researchers are looking into a way to break down plaque without the need for toothpaste or mouthwash, essential revolutionizing the way we approach oral hygiene. The Shiken Company, a Japanese manufacturer, is paying the researchers to investigate whether the solar toothbrush, which causes a chemical reaction in the mouth, does a better job of removing plaque and bacteria than the conventional toothbrush and toothpaste.

The model currently being tested contains a titanium dioxide rod in the neck of the brush, just below the nylon bristles. When light shines on the wet rod, electrons are released and react with acid in the mouth. This reaction helps eliminate bacteria and break down plaque. To top of this sci-fi gadget, the brush needs very little power to drive the reaction. There is a solar panel built into the neck of the brush and the brush uses energy from light similar to a solar calculator; no batteries required. As long as you are not standing in the dark, the brush will work its magic.

Initial tests are looking positive and the brushes creator, University of Saskatchewan dentistry professor emeritus Dr. Kunio Komiyama, believes there is true scientific merit to her newfangled brush. It is difficult for me to imagine cleaning my mouth without adding chemicals. We’ve all come to believe that mouthwash and toothpaste are the only sufficient option, but in a few years this brush may revolutionize oral hygiene. At the very least, it will give Colgate and Crest a run for their money.

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