How to Update Smart Toothbrush Firmware

Why firmware updates matter

Firmware is the software built into the toothbrush handle. It controls the motor, the timer, the pressure sensor, the brush head reminder, and the way the brush talks to the companion app. A firmware update is a small software package that the maker sends to the brush through your phone.

When a maker releases new firmware, they are usually fixing a bug, improving Bluetooth reliability, changing how a mode behaves, or adding a new reminder feature. Updating the firmware helps a smart toothbrush work as the maker intended and can prevent small problems from growing into bigger ones.

An update will not replace your need for a good routine. Oral health groups still recommend brushing twice a day for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste and cleaning between your teeth daily. The two-minute timer and the pressure sensor only work well when the firmware behind them is current.

• Improved motor or pressure sensor behavior
• More stable Bluetooth connections with the app
• Bug fixes for brushing history or reminders
• Changes to how the brush reports battery level
• New or adjusted app features after the maker releases them

How to check for a firmware update

Most smart toothbrushes connect to a companion app through Bluetooth. To check for an update, open the app on your phone and find the screen for your device. The location changes by brand, but it is often labeled Device, My Brush, Settings, or About. Look for a line that says Firmware Update, Software Update, or Check for Update.

If a firmware update is available, the app will usually show the current firmware version and the new version. If the app says you are up to date, you do not need to do anything. If you cannot find the option, check the maker's support page for the exact menu path.

Some brushes update automatically when they are on the charger and near the phone. Others require you to tap an Install or Update button. The exact behavior depends on the maker, so follow the prompts in your companion app.

Installing the update

Before you install, put the toothbrush on its charger. A firmware update transfers data to the handle, and if the battery runs out during the process, the brush can become unresponsive. Keeping the brush charging avoids that risk.

Keep your phone close to the toothbrush and leave the app open while the update downloads. The transfer usually happens over Bluetooth, and moving too far away can interrupt it.

When the download finishes, the app may tell you not to use the brush until the update is complete. The brush may vibrate or blink, and the app may show a progress bar. Leave the brush in place until the app says the update is finished.

If your toothbrush has a charging case or a Wi-Fi connection, the instructions may be different. For brushes that connect to home Wi-Fi, the update can start from the app even when the brush is not near the phone.

Prepare your toothbrush and phone before updating

A few simple checks before you start can make the update go smoothly.

Make sure the companion app is up to date on your phone. If the app is outdated, it may not know how to talk to the newest brush firmware. Update the app from your phone's app store first if needed.

Check that Bluetooth is turned on and that the app recognizes the brush. If the app cannot see the brush, restart the app, restart Bluetooth, and try again. You may also need to put the brush on the charger to wake it up.

• Put the brush on its charger
• Turn on Bluetooth on your phone
• Open the companion app and confirm the brush is connected
• Make sure the app itself is updated
• Stay near the brush while the update transfers

What to do if an update fails

An update can fail if the Bluetooth connection drops, the phone locks, the app closes, or the brush moves out of range. If the app shows an error, start again. Move the brush closer to the phone and make sure the brush is still on the charger.

If the brush will not respond after a failed update, do not panic. Try restarting the app, then restarting the brush. On many models, you can reset the brush by holding the power button for 10 to 15 seconds, though the exact reset method varies.

If the brush still will not reconnect or finish the update, the companion app may need to be reinstalled or the brush may need a factory reset. Check your maker's support page before doing that, because a reset usually clears your brushing history from the handle. If the problem continues, contact the maker's customer support.

• Close the app and reopen it
• Move the phone closer to the brush
• Restart Bluetooth on your phone
• Restart the toothbrush by holding the power button
• Charge the brush for a while and try again
• Check the maker's support page for reset instructions

After the update

When the update is done, the app should show the new firmware version. You may need to pair the brush again if the update reset the Bluetooth connection. Open the app, see if the brush appears, and follow the pairing steps if it does not.

After updating, review the app features that matter to you. Check that your brushing reminders, brush head replacement reminder, and pressure sensor alerts are still set the way you want. If the maker changed the app layout, the settings may be in a different place.

If you are buying a new toothbrush and want reliable updates, look for a Bluetooth or Wi-Fi model. These brushes receive updates through the app. A timer-only brush has no firmware update screen, which is fine if you do not need app features.

• Confirm the new firmware version in the app
• Check Bluetooth pairing if the app asks
• Review reminders and sensor settings
• Set a reminder to check for updates again in a few months

What to pick for your use

Questions

Do I need to update my smart toothbrush firmware every time an update appears?

You do not have to update immediately, but it is a good idea. Firmware updates often fix bugs and improve app pairing. Waiting a few days is fine, but leaving the update for many months may mean you miss a fix that makes the brush or app work better.

Will a firmware update erase my brushing history?

Usually not. Most updates keep your brushing history and settings. If a reset is required, the app will normally tell you before it starts. If you want to be safe, check whether the app exports your history before you update.

Can I update the firmware without Bluetooth?

No. Most smart toothbrush firmware is transferred through the companion app, and the app sends it to the brush over Bluetooth. Some newer models can update over Wi-Fi, but they still need the app to start the process. A brush with no app or no wireless connection cannot receive firmware updates.

How long does a smart toothbrush firmware update take?

The update time depends on the file size and the connection. Keep the brush on its charger and leave the app open until you see a completion message. If the app closes early, start the update again.

What should I do if the update fails halfway through?

Try again. Put the brush back on the charger, move the phone closer, and confirm Bluetooth is on. If the brush stops responding, restart the brush by holding the power button, then open the app and check for the update again. If it still fails, contact the maker's support team. For more app and Bluetooth tips, see how to get the most from your toothbrush app.