Oral health is a fundamental yet often overlooked aspect of our daily lives. How many of us truly practice proper brushing techniques for the recommended two minutes each session? Dental issues like cavities, gum bleeding, and periodontitis not only affect quality of life but may have systemic health implications.
Dr. Barbara "Bobbi" Peterson, an innovative orthodontist, developed the BigMouth toothbrush which gained national attention after appearing on ABC's "Shark Tank." The product's distinguishing feature is its oversized brush head, designed to cover more tooth surface area per stroke compared to conventional electric toothbrushes.
"Through clinical observations, I noticed most patients rushed through brushing," explained Dr. Peterson. "Smaller brush heads exacerbate this problem by requiring more time for comprehensive cleaning."
With a dental professional father and nurse educator mother, Dr. Peterson grew up with strong oral hygiene awareness. After completing her orthodontic residency in 2008, she established her Brooklyn practice where she frequently encountered patients with significant plaque accumulation.
Her research into electric toothbrushes revealed a market gap: while effective when used properly, most models required more brushing time than users typically devoted. After developing four prototypes with an engineer, she finalized a design suitable for most adolescents and adults.
Prior to patent filing, Dr. Peterson drew inspiration from her childhood nickname "BigMouth" - a reference to being the youngest and most vocal among eight siblings. This personal connection informed the product's memorable branding.
Following six months of strong sales after its 2022 launch, BigMouth appeared on "Shark Tank" in March 2023. The episode generated such demand that inventory sold out within 24 hours. Dr. Peterson secured a $150,000 investment from Barbara Corcoran for 20% equity plus $2 per unit sold.
The current BigMouth lineup includes both electric and sonic models, available in multiple colors with five cleaning modes: gum care, sensitive, clean, polish, and whitening. Distributed through Amazon, the company website, and over 100 dental clinics nationwide, the product continues to expand its market presence.
To maintain optimal oral health:
Plaque accumulation and periodontal disease remain significant public health concerns. The BigMouth toothbrush represents an innovative solution addressing the time constraints of modern oral care routines while promoting comprehensive dental hygiene.