Dyson's CameraJet is the most over-engineered toothbrush ever made — and I mean that as both a compliment and a warning

Dyson's CameraJet toothbrush is an over-engineered product that raises questions about whether the price is justified. The brush features a small camera that scans for gaps between teeth 28 times per second, and when it detects a gap, it shoots a jet of mouthwash directly into it. This process happens in about a tenth of a second as you brush, effectively flossing for you.

The engineering behind the CameraJet is impressive, as Dyson spent six years, filed 38 patents, and utilized more than 600 engineers to develop it. They trained the system on nearly half a million images of real teeth. The camera's motion is carefully timed to match the brush head's speed, and the anti-gravity tank of mouthwash ensures continuous flow regardless of the brush's position.

The CameraJet costs $499, which is comparable to the price of Dyson's Airwrap hair tool. While the camera and its functionality are clever, the main question is what problem $499 solves that a $90 electric toothbrush cannot. Nine out of ten people don't floss as often as they should, and a good electric toothbrush cleans teeth well.

The CameraJet's main selling point is its ability to get people to clean between their teeth twice a day, which can lead to a real health outcome. However, it remains to be seen if the $499 price tag is worth the investment as an alternative to cheaper toothbrushes and floss.