BROXO - inventor of the electric toothbrush

Genesis of the invention

The electric toothbrush

The Broxodent was the first electric toothbrush marketed in the 1950s.

P.G. Woog's invention was inspired by the need to stimulate the gums through physiological massage, to dislodge food debris and remove dental plaque in an optimal way. The massage generated by the arciform movement (vertical movement in the shape of an arc) unique to this electric toothbrush strengthens the gums which are no longer stimulated by too soft food. With a vertical movement of the brush head (3000 oscillations per minute) the teeth are also better cared for than with any other system. It was true then and it remains so today! The first devices were manufactured in Switzerland in Geneva in the Tavaro factory. Millions of units have been sold worldwide.

Dental jet

Subsequently PG Woog set out to develop a dental jet. A model existed then but had the defect of injuring the gums in some people and, more seriously still, too much pressure on a specific place of the gum could force gram-negative bacteria, naturally present in the mouth, into the blood system of capillaries, reach the heart and cause cardiac disturbances. This is how a hydropulser with 7 split micro-jets and high frequency was designed. It allowed, while maintaining sufficient flow and pressure to dislodge plaque and interdental debris, not to injure the gums. Moreover, the mixture of water and air thus produced further favored its action. It was the Broxojet.

Engine

The motor of this electric toothbrush was also quite revolutionary for its time, it was the first to use brushless technology (without contact carbon) 50 years before the appearance of rotary motors based on this principle. It was (and the rest) therefore indestructible and very efficient. The principle was to take advantage of the alternating current to reverse the direction of rotation at a rate of 50 hZ (resp. 60hz USA). With the help of a spring, the motor thus operated in a sweeping motion without the need for electronic control. The first models operated on 220V (resp. 110V usa). The coils were embedded in the resin and a patented hood system sealed the moving part, which ensured a perfect seal. Current models operate on low voltage.

Clinical studies

Many clinical studies have been conducted to validate this concept of oral hygiene, there is still no equivalent on the market. The rotating brushes do not allow the massage of the gums as provided by Broxo and the bristles of the brushes can wear the enamel by brushing it perpendicular to its natural ridges. Ultrasonic brushes do not massage the gums to strengthen them.