The present invention relates to a device and a method for processing bristle filaments, in particular toothbrushes, with an abrasive surface. In order to improve, in particular, the processing of contoured brushes, the abrasive surface is formed according to the present invention on at least one tooth flank of at least one tooth which is provided on a rotating circumferential surface and circulates in the rotational direction. The method according to the invention is characterized in that the bristle filaments are moved in a first direction substantially in parallel to at least one tooth flank comprising the abrasive surface, and in a second direction substantially at a right angle to the first direction, over the ridge of the at least one tooth.

A toothbrush formed of a handle, a neck and a bristle head. In order to allow the bristle head to move out of the way in the event of excessive brushing pressure being applied during toothbrushing, an elastic segment is provided between the handle and the bristle head. Injury to the gums, damage to the teeth and possibly to the tooth-holding means can be averted by the elastic flexure of the bristle head. The elastic segment is formed by one or more clearances, slots or slits at least partially filled with elastic polymeric/copolymeric plastic material.