Electric toothbrushes give kids — and adults — one less excuse to neglect brushing after meals. This Fix-It Guide on electric toothbrush repair tells how an electric toothbrush works, what often goes wrong, how to identify an electric toothbrush problem, and what parts and tools you will need to fix it. It then gives simple step-by-step instructions for how to clean a n electric toothbrush charger post and how to clean an electric toothbrush head. This guide also refers to electrical cord repair and battery recharger repair for more help.
How Does an Electric Toothbrush Work?
An electric toothbrush uses a small DC (direct current) motor to move the toothbrush shaft from side to side or back and forth, depending on the model. Most models are cordless, using a charger to replenish power. Less-expensive models operate on batteries.
Components inside an electric toothbrush charger typically are sealed from entry, so if it goes bad you must replace the entire unit.
What Can Go Wrong with an Electric Toothbrush?
Problems usually involve either the brush
heads, which are easily replaced if worn or faulty, or the charger. The power handle is typically sealed to prevent shock, so internal repairs should be left to a professional.
Who can repair your sealed electric toothbrush? Because they are small motorized electric appliances, nearly any small appliance repair shop can do it. Make sure you clean the unit well before delivering it to the repair person. Also be sure it’s worth the cost of repairs. It might be more cost effective to just buy a new one.
How Can I Identify an Electric Toothbrush Problem?
- If the appliance doesn’t work at all, make sure the power is on at the outlet, then test the electrical cord and battery recharger with a multimeter and replace the cord or charger if needed.
- If the unit still doesn’t work, clean the charger post. If the charger shocks the user, have it professionally serviced or replace it.
Fix-It Tip
Even a poorly running electric toothbrush is good for something. You can recycle it for use as a grout scrubber, or use it to clean hard-to-reach areas around sinks.
What Do I Need for Electric Toothbrush Repair?
Replacement parts for electric toothbrushes — including new brush heads — are available from the manufacturer and aftermarket suppliers and are typically sold through drug and discount stores. If you do need to work on an electric toothbrush, about the only tools you’ll need are a screwdriver and maybe a multimeter.
What Are the Steps to Electric Toothbrush Repair?
Clean an electric toothbrush charger post:
- Unplug the charger from the outlet.
- Use a fine emery cloth to clean the charger post.
- Spray the charger post with electrical contact cleaner, then wipe excess cleaner away.
Clean an electric toothbrush head:
- Remove the brush head from the toothbrush driver.
- Run the brush head under hot water with the brush running for a minute to loosen debris and sanitize the head.
- Reinstall the brush head.
Fix-It Tip
Depending on use, replace the brush head every three months unless directed otherwise by the manufacturer or your dentist.
