Serious Injuries Caused by Arm & Hammer Spinbrush

Photo: http://i.telegraph.co.uk 

Toothbrushes are designed to promote good oral hygiene. Dentist all over the world praise the benefits of using of electric toothbrushes for the most effective dental cleaning and plaque removal.  These mechanically-aided brushes help users get to all those hard to reach spots at the back of the jaw and at the gum lines. Battery-operated brushes for young children have become quite popular as well, allowing them to be more consistent in their brushing technique.

These power-brushes must be used under adult supervision, where an adult can both guide and encourage the youngster in their brushing habits. However, even under adult supervision, surprising safety concerns have come to light with the Arm & Hammer Spinbrush (called the Crest Spinbrush prior to 2009.)

The FDA has had reports of parts of the brush breaking off in use. Because the part is spinning at a high speed, the small parts have not only presented a choking hazard, but have also chipped teeth and created mouth, throat and eye injuries. Children have experienced cuts to lips, burns from the batteries, and even released bristles lodging in a youngster’s tonsils.

During a 2011 FDA inspection at the manufacturing plant of Church & Dwight Co. Inc., evidence was uncovered that the company had received several customer reports about the problems with the brushes. None of the complaints had been reported to the FDA as required.  In May 2011, Church & Dwight Co, Inc. was cited with reporting violations of serious injuries.

Since that time Church & Dwight Company, Inc. has issued public television and print safety notices, a safety warning on their website and company voice mail.  Structurally, the brush has been improved by adding bristles that change colors when the brush head is scheduled to be replaced, and improved labeling of replacement timeline.

The specific models involved in the Safety Alert are:

• Spinbrush ProClean
• Spinbrush ProClean Recharge
• Spinbrush Pro Whitening
• Spinbrush SONIC
• Spinbrush SONIC Recharge
• Spinbrush Swirl
• Spinbrush Classic Clean
• Spinbrush For Kids

In a press release issued today, the FDA is recommending following precautionary steps be taken by supervising adult before and during use of the brush. If ANY of the issues listed below are found DO NOT USE THE BRUSH.

• Adult must inspect the Spinbrush it for damage, cracks or loose bristles. If any defects are seen, don’t use the brush, and report the problem to Church & Dwight at 1-800-352-3384 or 1-800-561-0752.
• Make sure the head of the brush is tightly attached to the brush handle.
• Test the brush outside of your mouth before using. If the connection feels loose  do not use the brush. Use the number above to report it to Church & Dwight.
• Warn the child not to bite down on the brush head while brushing.  
• Always supervise children (and adults) who may need help when using the Spinbrush.
• Follow all instructions and replacement guidelines included with the Spinbrush.
• Injuries or problems should be reported to MedWatch—FDA's Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program using the Online Voluntary Reporting Form 3055

Contact FDA with questions or concerns by Fax at 800-FDA-0178  or by Phone at 800-332-1088.