The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has issued a warning on an electronic toothbrush that is marketed towards children.
The “Spinbrush” has been well received by consumers with 39 million of these cleaning devices sold, but reports show children are being injured by the spinning brush.
The injuries
According to WebMd, injuries include:
- While turned on, the brush head has either “popped off” or broken off in the user’s mouth or near the face, causing cuts to the mouth and gums, chipped or broken teeth, swallowing and choking on the broken pieces, and injuries to the face and eyes.
- When the unexpected release of any part of the powered toothbrush occurs, there is a potential for serious injury. This risk is higher for unattended children or adults who may need assistance while using this device.
“We’ve had reports in which parts of the toothbrush broke off during use and were released in
to the mouth with great speed, causing broken teeth and presenting a choking hazard,” says Shumaya Ali, MPH, a consumer safety officer at the Food and Drug Administration.
What’s being done?
The company that makes the toothbrush, Church & Dwight Co. Inco in New Jersey isn’t recalling the product, instead they are telling people how to avoid injury.
The FDA recommends that consumers who have a Spinbrush:
- Inspect the Spinbrush for any damage or loose brush bristles prior to using. If you notice any damage or loose brush bristles, DO NOT USE.
- Check to be sure that the headpiece is connected properly to the handle of the brush and test your brush outside of the mouth prior to using. If you notice the connection feels loose or the headpiece easily detaches from the handle, DO NOT USE.
- Supervise children and adults who need assistance when using the Spinbrush.
- Do not bite down on the brush head while brushing.
- Follow the instructions and recommended replacement guidelines included with the Spinbrush.
- NOTE: The brush head for the Kid’s Spinbrush is not replaceable. If you notice any damage or loose brush bristles, DO NOT USE.
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