Sparkling Smiles: Top 9 Electric Toothbrushes You Need to Try!
Photo: Marcus McDonald
As a writer passionate about personal hygiene, I can’t stress enough how much more enjoyable tooth brushing becomes with an electric toothbrush. With quadrant timers and pressure sensors, you’ll always know you’re getting a thorough clean. And don’t worry—electric toothbrushes don’t have to break the bank. There are plenty of affordable options to suit every budget and lifestyle!
Many dentists believe electric toothbrushes have a slight advantage over manual ones when it comes to reducing plaque and gum disease. They’re easier on your gums and can lessen the force of your brushing. When hunting for the perfect electric toothbrush, look for one with an ADA Seal of Acceptance to ensure it’s safe and effective. After that, relax—selecting from dentist-approved electric options shouldn’t be stressful. “Choosing between Sonicare and Oral-B is like picking between a Mercedes and a BMW,” says a dental expert. Both brands have their strengths, so it mostly comes down to personal preference. To bring you this guide, I tested various models, examining features like pressure sensors and timers.
Update on December 27, 2024: Prices and stock availability for all products have been updated.
Electric toothbrushes generally fall into three categories: rotating, oscillating, and sonic. “Rotating toothbrushes have small, circular heads that clean each tooth, while sonic toothbrushes vibrate at high speeds—up to 50,000 movements per minute,” explains Dr. Cooper. While oscillating and rotating terms are often used interchangeably, they refer to different movements: rotating brushes move in circles, while oscillating brushes sweep side-to-side. Some dentists argue that one isn’t better than the other, while others favor the sonic technology for its efficiency. Dr. Huang appreciates sonic toothbrushes for their ability to dislodge debris without requiring as much pressure on the gums. The ideal toothbrush would combine both features, but many agree that rotating heads are particularly effective on curved surfaces.
Brush movement: Rotating, oscillating, and sonic | Soft bristles: Yes | Pressure sensor: Yes | Timer: Yes | Brush-head size: Small | Replacement heads: Four for $20 ($5 each)
The Oral-B Pro 1000 is a solid, budget-friendly entry into the world of electric toothbrushes. I upgraded from a manual toothbrush, and this model has proven to deliver a thorough clean without extra bells and whistles. The built-in two-minute timer and pressure sensor ensure you’re brushing with the right amount of force. The small round brush head fits comfortably around each tooth for a comprehensive clean.
According to a cosmetic dentist, Oral-B brushes often come loaded with features, giving them a competitive edge in the market. The Pro 1000 combines rotating, oscillating, and pulsating technologies, achieving an impressive 44,000 movements per minute, effectively disrupting plaque and promoting optimal oral health.
Brushing with the Oral-B Pro 1000. Photo: Arielle Ava
Brush movement: Rotating and oscillating | Soft bristles: Yes | Pressure sensor: No | Timer: No | Brush-head size: Large
For those looking to dip their toes into the world of electric toothbrushes without spending a fortune, this is a great starting point. While it lacks some high-end features like a timer or pressure sensor found in pricier models, it’s still a solid choice for travel and everyday use. The brush head’s dual-action movement—rotating on top and oscillating below—ensures a thorough clean, and the bristles even change color when it’s time for a replacement. It’s battery-operated, so you’ll never worry about an internal battery dying on you.
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