A power toothbrush (10) is disclosed having a handle (15) containing a
rechargeable battery (12), an ultrasonic drive circuit (14), a sonic
component (16) such as a motor, and a control unit (18). The handle is
connected to a toothbrush head (20) preferably having a plurality of
bristles (26) and an ultrasonic transducer (22) that is operatively
connected to a waveguide (24) that extends from the toothbrush head
generally adjacent the bristles. The waveguide facilitates the
transmission of acoustic energy into the dental fluid. It is contemplated
that the waveguide may be utilized in manual or power toothbrushes, and
in a combination without the sonic component, or in a combination without
the ultrasonic transducer. Toothbrushes disclosed herein achieve improved
plaque and stain removal from the teeth as well as interproximal and
subgingival regions, while enhancing the user experience, massaging the
gums, and stimulating dental tissue.