It’s hard enough for some parents to get their kids to brush their teeth regularly. If your little ones use an electric device called the Spinbrush, your job just got a little harder.

According to the FDA, the Spinbrush, whose colorful packaging and design is aimed at children, can cause serious injuries, as reported on WebMD.com.

More than 39 million Spinbrushes have been sold, some models under the Arm & Hammer brand, others under Crest. All are manufactured by Church & Dwight Co. Inc, and are sold as Spinbrush.

According to the FDA’s website, parts can fly off the device and chip teeth, damage eyes, cut the mouth and gums and get stuck in the throat.

The FDA cites the potential for injury while using these Spinbrush models:

• Spinbrush ProClean


• Spinbrush ProClean Recharge


• Spinbrush Pro Whitening


• Spinbrush SONIC


• Spinbrush SONIC Recharge


• Spinbrush Swirl


• Spinbrush Classic Clean


• Spinbrush For Kids


• Spinbrush Replacement Heads
   

The toothbrushes aren't being recalled, but Church & Dwight is informing consumers how to avoid injury on its website and via television and print advertising.

This isn’t the first time the FDA has come down on Church & Dwight. An inspection last year uncovered evidence that there had been numerous consumer complaints that had not been reported to the agency. In May, the FDA warned the company of its violations of the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act, including failure to report—within a reasonable period—serious injuries.

“Electric toothbrushes can be very effective in removing dental plaque, and so they can help prevent dental decay and gum disease,” says Susan Runner, D.D.S., chief of FDA’s dental devices branch. “At the same time, it’s important to supervise children when they use these brushes, and to look out for any malfunctions of the toothbrush that might cause an injury.”

If you or your child uses a Spinbrush:

• Inspect the Spinbrush for damage or loose brush bristles. If it’s damaged, don’t use the toothbrush.


• Check to ensure the headpiece is connected securely to the handle, and test it outside of the mouth. If the connection feels loose or the headpiece easily detaches from the handle, don’t use it.


• Do not bite down on the brush head while brushing.
   

Report damaged toothbrushes to Church & Dwight toll-free at (800) 352-3384 or (800) 561-0752. Report injuries or problems with the Spinbrush to MedWatch, the FDA’s Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program. You can file a report online, by regular mail or by fax or phone.