Jonathan,

I appreciate Dr. Elbaz’ silicone gum cleaner very much. Not clearly understanding how it was constructed, nor exactly sure how to use it, I realized early on that I had abused the very end of the tip, and changed my technique. Nonetheless, it finally broke off a couple of weeks before I received my refill tips.

This was actually a good thing, because it forced me to explore other ways of using it, and gentler approaches in administering to the gum line. Driving home from California to New Mexico gave me plenty of time to practice.

Since you've invited suggestions, here are a couple.

When the tiny silicone nub finally fell off the tip, I could see that the sleeve of the silicone cover on the tip was only attached to its hard plastic core at its base—the rest of the silicone was not bonded to the hard plastic. If the entire length were to be thoroughly bonded to the plastic core (with a biomimetic substance, of course), I imagine the entire tip would be even more effective in its task. And I believe its very tip would be more durable.

Very soon after using the device, ideas for additional, interchangeable tips started coming to me. Silicone is an excellent material for dental cleaning. Here's an application for a tip I believe would suit my particular needs. Toothbrushing advice from the dental profession has been anything but consistent for a very long time. So I honestly don't know what's best for my teeth and gums. But here's my experience. Soft…