The 6-Second 3D Printed Toothbrush

By on October 2nd, 2013 in Usage

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The Blizzident is a revolutionary new approach to brushing your teeth, created by the intersection of 3D scanning and 3D printing – in your mouth. 
 
 
The Blizzident is a mouthpiece you chomp on for (apparently) six seconds, during which each of your teeth are brushed on all surfaces by “a dense field of tailored bristles” emanating from the inside of the mouthpiece. After a short chomp, your teeth are sparkly clean. Watch the video to see how it works. 
 
The mouthpiece is unique to you. Your dentist will obtain an impression of your teeth in a traditional manner or in some cases, take a 3D scan directly. In either case, the impression or scan is transformed into a 3D model that surrounds your teeth. The model is then 3D printed with bristles of perfect length to reach all spots on your dentition. 
 
Ok, but how much does this cost? First, you’ll pay your dentist for creating the impression. Blizzident suggests this typically costs USD$75-200. Then Blizzident will create your own personal print for USD$299 (replacements are USD$159). Ominously, they also quote a price of USD$89 for a “cleaned and all bristles brandnew”. We’re wondering what the lifetime of a Blizzident could be? Nevertheless, we suspect you’ll be paying somewhat more than a very fancy electric toothbrush to save a few minutes of your time – and even more if you’re outside North America as prices are somewhat higher. 
 
This could be the first completely new type of product generated through 3D printing. It won’t be the last.  
 

By Kerry Stevenson

Kerry Stevenson, aka "General Fabb" has written over 8,000 stories on 3D printing at Fabbaloo since he launched the venture in 2007, with an intention to promote and grow the incredible technology of 3D printing across the world. So far, it seems to be working!