Blue illume's position is bolstered due to consumers’ increased awareness of good dental hygiene. Gingivitis is so common it affects 95% of all adults, whereas periodontitis affects 34% of the worlds population over 30, severely affecting 13% of all adults.

The technology underlying the construction of the Blue illume™ toothbrush is based on research conducted at the Forsyth Institute, which is affiliated with Harvard University. 

During this research it was discovered that blue light in the wavelength range of 380 to 520 nanometers killed both plaque containing more than 600 different types of harmful bacteria as well as black pigmented bacteria, which is particularly aggressive in the development of inflammation in the gum. 

Black pigmented bacteria are pathogens associated with periodontal disease (periodontitis). Such bacteria accumulate black pigment, consisting mainly of organic compounds called porphyrins. 
Some porphyrins are photosensitive and when activated by visible light produces a photodynamic reaction that kills the microorganism within seconds.

Some of the major bacterial pathogens associated with periodontitis produce VSC (Volatile Sulfide Compounds), causing gingivitis and bad breath. The same bacteria are sensitive to light, especially light in the blue spectrum.