Orthodontist Dr. Bobbi Peterson is bringing awareness to the importance of oral health with her innovative product.
To amplify the Big Mouth Toothbrush, Dr. Bobbi made an appearance on ABC’s “Shark Tank.” Her creation makes her the first Black woman orthodontist said to design a toothbrush.
On “Shark Tank,” Dr. Bobbi was looking for $150,000 for 10% of her company. She ended up walking away with a deal from investor Barbara Corcoran of $150,000 for 20% of her company and $2 from every unit she sells.
What’s more, News 12 reports that The Big Mouth Toothbrush sold out 24 hours after airing on the show.
The Big Mouth Toothbrush features an extra-large head and bristles that are three times the size of those on a regular toothbrush to help people take care of their teeth and gums in both a thorough and efficient manner.
Along with disrupting the oral health care industry with her toothbrush, Dr. Bobbi, an orthodontist for over 20 years, is active in spreading the knowledge of oral care.
As the daughter of a dentist and the owner of her own dental practice — Aces Braces — in Brooklyn, NY, the Newark, NJ, native is passionate about bringing this education to her community.
“I feel as though I am a pillar in my local community when it comes to oral health care,” Dr. Bobbi told AfroTech. “We volunteer at different schools and fairs and spread the word about how important oral health care is to overall health.”
Although Dr. Bobbi has expertise in oral health care, she shared with AfroTech that it was still a challenge to effectively pitch her product for investment.
“The process is stressful, but no one can present your brand or product and speak with such passion as you can,” Dr. Bobbi said. “The Sharks are people, too! They are self-made millionaires or billionaires, and they have all been in that position before. The best way to pitch is to talk about your brand while also incorporating a bit of who you are. Sharks are not just buying into your brand. They are buying into who you are and your passion for what you own!”
Although the process was stressful, ultimately, Dr. Bobbi hopes that her national television appearance made an impact.
“I hope that my appearance on ‘Shark Tank’ expands my local impact to a global impact in terms of not only improving oral health care but also serving as a reflection for the next generation,” she said. “Many people think that something like this is unattainable. I’m hoping to change that narrative for the younger generation that looks like me!”