Electric toothbrush — what we tell our patients.
There are two brands worth your money. Here's the short version and the longer one.
The two we recommend.
Philips Sonicare (sonic vibration) and Oral-B (oscillating-rotating). Both have decades of clinical data showing they outperform manual brushing. Pick the one that feels more comfortable — the best brush is the one you'll actually use.
Which model matters less than you'd think.
Once you're in the brand's mid-range or higher, you're getting the core brushing mechanics. Higher-end models add Bluetooth, pressure sensors, and different head shapes — useful but not transformative. We tell most patients to find the cheapest Sonicare DiamondClean or Oral-B iO that fits their budget.
Replacement heads matter more than the handle.
Replace the head every 3 months — bristles fray and clean less effectively. Set a calendar reminder.
Technique still matters.
Electric brushes do the moving for you, but you have to guide them. 2 minutes total, 30 seconds per quadrant, gentle pressure, angle the bristles at 45° toward the gumline. We show you in person at every hygiene visit.
Common questions.
Charcoal toothbrushes?
Skip. Charcoal bristles are abrasive and provide no benefit.
Kids — electric or manual?
Electric from age 5+ is fine. Look for kid-specific heads with softer bristles.
How long should the brush last?
Handles typically last 5+ years. Heads, 3 months.
Want to upgrade your routine?
Tell us at the next hygiene visit — we'll demo with your brush.
Book Online →