A Kentucky start-up has developed a manual toothbrush with an embedded sensor that maps brushing behavior and sends the data to an associated smartphone app via Bluetooth.
The free app, developed by Beam Technologies for Android or Apple iOS, tracks brushing habits, including frequency and duration, as well as time spent in each quadrant of the mouth. Users sync data to the smartphone app by pushing a button on the brush handle. The app supports multiple users so families can compare statistics and then upload data to their dentists.
Beam Technologies is providing the connectivity free to dental practices that want to participate and will be selling targeted advertising on the app for dentists to promote their services, according to the company.
In addition, the company is offering a rewards program for people who meet certain targets, including the basic goal of brushing at least twice a day for two minutes each time. The app can play user-selected music for those two minutes.
The Beam Brush and related app received U.S. Food and Drug Administration clearance last June.
Beam Technologies is selling the toothbrush for $49.99. It is available in blue or pink, with adult- or child-size brush heads. Replacement brush heads cost $3.99. The brush draws power from one AA battery.
