Expert: Walter Hintz - 2/6/2006

Question
Dear Walter:

First of all it was difficult for me to find an especific expert to ask this question because it deals with technology but also life, I hope you can help me find the answers.

I have been seeing this new toothbrush technology called Sonic Toothbrushes like the Phillips Sonicare. I asked myself if this sonic waves that the toothbrush creates have some effect or suppose any threat to the brain and the nerves in the head as maybe this waves go beyond the teeth and the skull because they are famous to be "very" powerful.

Thank you very much!

Joan

Answer
Hi Joan:  I am not an expert on sonic waves. However sound waves have been used by dental hygenists to clean teeth for years with no negative effects.  I suspect that sonic toothbrushes are even less powerful.  They also have been subjected to rigorous testing before release so I do not think they are a danger to the brain.  Sound waves are used in diagnosis without adverse effects.  You may be able to get more information from a Dentist.