A removable and transferable electronic system monitors the brushing
patterns and brushing intensity of a user by analyzing the sound(s) that
is produced by a conventional tooth brush as it passes over the teeth
and/or gums. The system couples to the toothbrush and the brushing sounds
are captured by a microphone coupled to the toothbrush which is then
communicated to a microprocessor coupled to a digital display. After the
microprocessor has analyzed the brushing sounds, a message is displayed
on the digital display that directs the user to continue brushing or
change brushing habits, depending on the outcome of the analysis. After
brushing, the system may be decoupled from the toothbrush and stored or
coupled to another user's toothbrush and the process repeated.