Oral hygiene is an important aspect of overall health. Sonicare and Oral-B are two leaders in the electronic toothbrush industry. In this article, you will find reviews of many Sonicare and Oral-B electronic toothbrushes.
So which is better? Oral-B or Sonicare? To answer this, we had to review many different models in the same price range to determine which is better. Read on for the full review.
Oral-B or Sonicare? What’s the Difference?
It’s no secret that the two leading manufacturers of electric toothbrushes are Oral-B and Sonicare. Both of these brands have been duking it out in the electronic toothbrush industry for years. In fact, these brands boast a combined total of close to 14 million users.
Oral-B leads the way with nearly 9 million users.
Oral-B leads the way in reported users with over 9 million. It is generally a cheaper option than Sonicare. This is probably why it generates more users year after year. Sonicare has nearly 5.5 million reported users.
Philips Sonicare electric toothbrush all brush at the same rate of 31,000 strokes per minute. This is worth noting because the cheapest Sonicare toothbrush brushes at the same rate of speed as the most expensive model. What separates Sonicare models are their features.
What separates Sonicare models are their features.
Sonicare models have features ranging from USB charging cases to UV sanitizers to name a few. All Sonicare models (besides the Essence) use a snap-on style brush and are interchangeable with each another.
Oral-B is king when it comes to rotating electric toothbrushes. This brand of toothbrush is tiered based on the number of brushing movements per minute. Oral-B uses the CrossAction brush head as the standard option in most of its models. This head is a medium firmness that does well for general cleaning and sweeping the gum line.
Oral-B offers other brush heads that can be used on most models if the standard one isn’t to your liking. All Oral-B toothbrushes use the same type of charging stand. So you can actually purchase multiple toothbrushes but only need one charger.
Let’s take a second to look at other differences between the two brands before we dive into comparing specific models.
Brush Technology
Sonicare uses sonic technology to brush the teeth. This technology uses 2 methods to clean teeth. The first method is a mechanical side-to-side motion of the brush. This helps remove plaque by sweeping and scrubbing the surface of the teeth. The second method is a non-contact approach. This uses sonic technology to disrupt plaque that the bristles cannot reach.
Sonicare uses sonic technology.
Oral-B’s cleaning uses oscillating-rotating movements. The small, round brush head moves side to side in a circular motion in order to remove plaque and debris from teeth. The movement of the bristles and the brush head scrub the teeth.
This oscillating-rotating movement is referred to as 2D cleaning. Adding in pulsations would make it 3D cleaning.
Many scientific studies have been done comparing the differences between oscillating-rotating approach versus the sonic option. The previously mentioned study was conducted by Procter & Gamble, who is the parent company of Oral-B. However, this independent study done by Chochrane shows that the oscillating-rotating technology is more effective. It is worth noting that the differences between technologies effectiveness are small.
Oral-B’s uses oscillating-rotating movements.
Design Differences
Sonicare electronic toothbrushes generally have a more clinical appearance. Most models come in a white color with soft color accents on power buttons. They also normally have a rubber grip. If you go with a brush in their premium price range, they do offer more color options besides white.
Oral-B brushes generally have a glossy white plastic body with a rubber grip down the front of the handle. The model of the toothbrush often determines the color of the rubber grip.
Differences in Features
Oral-B brushes offer more cleaning modes, a pressure sensor, and Bluetooth connectivity. These models are often less expensive than Sonicare.
Oral-B brushes offer more cleaning modes.
Sonicare brushes typically have 1 to 2 cleaning modes, unless you opt for the most expensive model which has 5 cleaning modes. All Sonicare models work globally, while Oral B only work within the region they are bought in. Oral-B low to mid end models have between 1 and 4 cleaning modes, while its most premium models have 5 to 6 modes.
All Sonicare models work globally.
Both brands offer models with bluetooth connectivity. Thes share brushing data with your phone. Oral-B has more models with this feature than Sonicare does at the moment.
Clinical Studies
Low-End Section
|
Name
|
Score
|
Brush Heads
|
Modes
|
Technology
|
Battery Life
|
Pressure Sensor
|
Mouth Quadrant Timer
|
Brush Head Replacement Indicator
|
2 Minute Timer
|
Accessories
|
International Usage
|
Extra Features
|
Price
|
||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BEST VALUE |   |
Sonicare 4100 |  |
1 | 1 | Sonic | 2 Weeks |  |
|
|
|
Charger | |
Easy Start Program |  |
  |
Oral-B Pro 1000 |  |
1 | 1 | Oscillating-Rotating-Pulsating | 1 Week | |
|
 |
|
Charger | |
None | |
|
  |
Sonicare Essence | |
1 | 1 | Sonic | 2 Weeks | |
|
|
|
Charger | |
None | |
|
  |
Oral-B Pro 500 |  |
1 | 1 | Oscillating-Rotating-Pulsating | 5 days | |
|
|
|
Charger | |
None | |
Sonicare Vs Oral-B: Low End Category Winner
So who wins in the battle among low-end electronic toothbrushes? Sonicare ProtectiveClean4100, hands down. Its longer battery life (by a full week!), BrushSync technology, design options, and automatic shut off feature set it apart from the Oral-B Pro 1000. It also boasts features such as quadrant timing, better design, and a quieter brushing experience than its competitors.
The Sonicare Protective Clean 4100 fulfils the basic demands of an electric toothbrush. It
Users of the Sonicare ProtectiveClean 4100 also state that the brush is easy to use and includes many helpful features. These include the timer and pressure settings to name a few. When choosing an electric toothbrush in the low-end price range, the Sonicare ProtectiveClean 4100 is the way to go.
Mid-Range Section
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Name
|
Score
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Brush Heads
|
Modes
|
Technology
|
Battery Life
|
Pressure Sensor
|
Mouth Quadrant Timer
|
Brush Head Replacement Indicator
|
2 Minute Timer
|
Accessories
|
International Usage
|
Extra Features
|
Price
|
||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BEST VALUE |  |
Oral-B Pro 5000 SmartSeries | |
1 | 5 | Oscillating-Rotating-Pulsating | 11 Days | |
|
|
|
Charger & Travel Case | |
Bluetooth App | |
 |
Oral-B Pro 3000 | |
1 | 3 | Oscillating-Rotating-Pulsating | 2 Weeks | |
|
|
|
Charger & Travel Case | |
Bluetooth & Lithium-ion Battery | |
|
  |
Sonicare Protective Clean 6100 | |
1 | 3 | Sonic | 2 Weeks | |
|
|
|
Charger & Travel Case | |
None | |
|
  |
Sonicare FlexCare+ |  |
1 | 5 | Sonic | 3 Weeks | |
|
|
|
Brush Tray & Charger | |
None | |
Sonicare Vs Oral-B: Mid-Range Category Winner
So who wins in the battle among mid-level electronic toothbrushes? TheOral-B Pro 5000. Its battery life, bluetooth connectivity, design options, and price point set it apart. It does a fantastic job for a great price.
The Oral-B Pro 5000 Smart Series fulfill the basic demands of an electric toothbrush. It:
Users also state that the brush is very easy to use and includes many helpful features. These includes bluetooth connectivity, longer battery life and timers. When choosing an electric toothbrush in the mid-level price range, theOral-B 5000 is a fantastic choice.
High-End Section
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Name
|
Score
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Brush Heads
|
Modes
|
Technology Used
|
Battery Life
|
Pressure Sensor
|
Tongue Cleaning Mode
|
Mouth Quadrant Timer
|
Brush Head Replacement Indicator
|
2 Minute Brushing Timer
|
Accessories
|
International Usage
|
Extra Features
|
Price
|
||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BEST VALUE |  |
Oral-B Genius Pro 8000 | |
3 | 6 | Oscillating-Rotating-Pulsating | 2 Weeks | |
|
|
|
|
Premium USB Travel Case Charger | |
Bluetooth App & Lithium-ion battery | |
 |
Sonicare DiamondClean Smart 9300 | |
3 | 8 | Sonic | 2 Weeks | |
|
|
|
|
Charger & Premium Travel Case | |
Bluetooth App & Lithium-ion battery | |
|
 |
Oral-B Pro 7500 | |
3 | 5 | Oscillating-Rotating-Pulsating | 2 Weeks | |
|
|
|
|
Standard Charger & Premium Travel Case | |
Bluetooth App & Lithium-ion battery | |
|
 |
Sonicare DiamondClean Smart 9750 | |
4 | 5 | Sonic | 14 days (110-130 volts) | |
|
|
|
|
Premium USB Travel Case Charger & Glass Charging Base | |
Bluetooth & Coaching App | |
Sonicare Vs Oral-B: High-End Category Winner
So who wins in the battle among high-end electronic toothbrushes? The Oral-B Genius Pro 8000.
Low-End Individual Product Reviews
Sonicare ProtectiveClean 4100 Plaque Control
 |  |
|---|---|
| Brush Heads | 1 |
| Modes | 1 |
| Technology Used | Sonic |
| Battery Life and Voltage | 2 weeks (110-220 volts) |
| Pressure Sensor | |
| UV Sanitizer | |
| Tongue Cleaning Mode | |
| 2 Minute Brushing Timer | |
| Mouth Quadrant Timer | |
| Brush Head Replacement Indicator | |
| Accessories | Charger |
| International Usage | |
| Price | |
Pros
- Great price point for the features
- 1 cleaning mode that makes it easy to use
- American Dental Association approved
- Built in timer and pacer that tells you when to change quadrants so that you get a nice even, thorough clean
- BrushSync that tells you when it is time to change the brush head
- Pressure sensor warns you via a vibration in the brush handle when you are brushing too hard
- Automatic power off that helps save battery power and lets you know the clean is done
- Battery life that lasts for 2 solid weeks, if not more
Cons
- Replacement brush heads range in price but can be more expensive
- Smooth plastic handle can make the brush difficult to hold on to if hands get wet
The Philips Sonicare ProtectiveClean 4100 features sonic technology that brushes away plaque. This provides an incredible gentle, yet effective clean. It also features a pressure sensor that alerts you if are brushing too hard. This helps protect both teeth and gums. The BrushSync technology tracks how long you have been using your brush head, and how hard you have been brushing. When it is time to replace the brush head, a light on the brush handle alerts you.
The BrushSync technology tracks how long and how hard you have been using your brush head.
This entry level toothbrush from Sonicare is another incredibly popular model. At its price range, it offers quite a few features. This eletronic toothbrush comes with one brush head, with bristles that remove up to 7x more plaque than a manual toothbrush. The curved power tip helps reach the teeth at the back of the mouth as well.
Featuring sonic technology, the ProtectiveClean 4100 brushes teeth at a rate of up to 31,000 brush strokes per minute. This helps drive toothpaste deep between the teeth and along the gumline. Even with this kind of power, the Protective Clean 4100 is safe to use for those with braces, fillings, crowns, and veneers.
This model also alerts you when you need to change your brush head and also features a quadrant sensor.
Key features of the Philips Sonicare ProtectiveClean 4100 are:
Oral-B Pro 1000
 |  |
|---|---|
| Brush Heads | 1 |
| Modes | 1 |
| Technology Used | Oscillating-Rotating |
| Battery Life and Voltage | 1 week (110-130 volts) |
| Pressure Sensor | |
| UV Sanitizer | |
| Tongue Cleaning Mode | |
| 2 Minute Brushing Timer | |
| Mouth Quadrant Timer | |
| Brush Head Replacement Indicator | |
| Accessories | Charger |
| Battery Life Indicator | |
| International Usage | |
| Price | |
Pros
- The price is hard to beat for the features offered
- This model comes with a CrossAction brush head, but it is compatible with most brush heads from Oral-B
- Built in alert to remind you to move to different sections of your mouth every 30 seconds
- Features a pressure sensor to alert you if you are brushing too hard
- Waterproof handle
- American Dental Association approved
Cons
- Some users complain of the noise level of this brush, stating that it is rather loud
- Thin and smooth handle (no rubber grip) can make it difficult to hold on to if your hands get wet
- Some users complained that the life of the toothbrush itself is not as long as higher-end models
- Does not come with a toothbrush holder
The Oral-B Pro 1000
is a rechargeable electronic toothbrush from Braun. It uses a CrossAction brush head designed to surround each tooth with bristles angled at 16 degrees. The brush uses oscillating-rotating and pulsating technology. It is also compatible with several toothbrush heads from Oral-B.
This model features a pressure sensor that stops the pulsation movement if you brush too hard. With one mode, the Oral-B Pro 1000 is a base model for the company. But this model does feature an in-handle timer that encourages you to brush your teeth for the dentist-recommended 2 minutes. At the end of the two minutes, the brush does not turn off by itself, you will have to manually turn it off.
This model features a pressure sensor that stops the pulsation movement if you brush too hard.
Many electronic toothbrush users start out in this price range for their first electronic toothbrush. In fact, the Oral-B Pro 1000 is one of the most popular electronic toothbrush models on the market. Although it only has one cleaning mode, it does have a few highly recommended features from dentists.
The Oral-B Pro 1000 has a two-minute timer that stutters at 30 second intervals. This alerts you to move on to a different quadrant of your mouth. It also has a built in pressure sensor and alert so that you do not brush your teeth too hard.
The Oral-B Pro 1000 has a week long battery life (according to Oral-B). This equates to 28 minutes of cleaning time if you plan to brush your teeth two times a day for two minutes. Brush heads should be changed every 3 months for optimum cleanliness.
Key features of the Philips Sonicare ProtectiveClean 4100 include:
Sonicare Essence
|   |
|---|---|
| Brush Heads | 1 |
| Modes | 1 |
| Technology Used | Sonic |
| Battery Life and Voltage | 2 weeks (110-220 volts) |
| Pressure Sensor | |
| UV Sanitizer | |
| Tongue Cleaning Mode | |
| 2 Minute Brushing Timer | |
| Mouth Quadrant Timer | |
| Brush Head Replacement Indicator | |
| Accessories | Charger |
| International Usage | |
| Price | |
Pros
- Reasonable price point
- 1 cleaning mode that makes it easy to use
- American Dental Association approved
- Built in timer that encourages you to brush for the dentist recommended 2 minutes
- Automatic power off that helps save battery power and lets you know the cleaning is done
- Battery life that lasts for 2 solid weeks, if not more
- Know when to change the head because the bristles fade
Cons
- Does not feature quadrant timing
- No pressure indicator if brushing too hard
- Replacement brush heads range in price but can be more expensive
- The design appeal is lacking
The Philips Sonicare Essence is an entry level electronic toothbrush. This rechargeable electric toothbrush has soft, contoured bristles. It uses sonic technology to remove plaque in difficult to reach areas. And it has a two minute timer to encourage users to brush for the dentist recommended amount of time.
According to Sonicare, the Essence removes up to 2x more plaque than a manual toothbrush. It also includes up to 31,000 brush strokes per minute. The sweeping motions of the brush drive fluids deep into the tight spaces between teeth and along the gumline. This helps teeth and gums get cleaner than with a manual toothbrush. The Essence is safe to use for those with braces, veneers, implants, and sensitive teeth.
The battery lasts for two weeks and comes with a travel case and cap.
A great feature is its battery life. Its battery lasts for two weeks on a single charge, and it comes with a travel case and cap. It also features a battery life indicator that will blink when it’s time to charge the battery.
The Sonicare Essence has contoured bristles that work with the natural shape of your teeth. It also has an angled neck, making it easier to brush those hard to reach places. This electronic toothbrush requires little pressure from the user as the bristle motion does the hard work for you.
The Sonicare Effesne has a number of features such as:
Oral-B Pro 500
 | |
|---|---|
| Brush Heads | 1 |
| Modes | 1 |
| Technology Used | oscillating-rotating |
| Battery Life and Voltage | 5 days (110-130 volts) |
| Pressure Sensor | |
| UV Sanitizer | |
| Tongue Cleaning Mode | |
| 2 Minute Brushing Timer | |
| Mouth Quadrant Timer | |
| Visual Brush Head Replacement Indicator | |
| Accessories | Charger |
| International Usage | |
| Price | |
Pros
- Simple, no nonsense toothbrush with only 1 cleaning mode
- The handle features a rubber grip, making it easy to hold on to, even when slippery
- A built in 2 minute timer encourages brushers to brush their teeth for the dentist recommended 2 minutes
- Includes a CrossAction brush head, but it is compatible with most brush heads from Oral-B
- Waterproof handle
- Know when to change the head because the bristles fade
Cons
- Plain and simple, better brushes exist out there for not much more money
- No indication of how much power the brush has left, apart from its motor slowing down
- Only 5 days of battery life, with no indicator that the battery is low
- Does not have a quadpacer timer to help users have an evenly brushed mouth
- No automatic turn off after 2 minutes end
- Users complain of the noise level, stating that it is very loud
The Oral-B Pro 500
electronic toothbrush is an entry-level electronic toothbrush. It features micropulse bristles that help clean deep within teeth for up to 2x better plaque removal than a manual toothbrush.
Its round brush head is inspired by dental professional tools to provide a tooth by tooth cleaning. The floss action bristles on the brush head help loosen plaque between teeth, but do not replace flossing. It also features an in-handle timer to help you brush for the dentist recommended 2 minutes. The brush does not turn off automatically after the 2 minutes are over, however.
The Oral B 500 was designed with simplicity, practicality & budget in mind.
This electronic toothbrush was designed with simplicity, practicality, and budget in mind. Its 2D cleaning technology features a toothbrush head that oscillates and rotates to break up and remove plaque. It has all the basic requirements of an electronic toothbrush, and nothing else. Compared to a manual toothbrush, the Oral-B Pro 500 can remove up to 100% more plaque. For some, this is a solid option when exploring the idea of an electric toothbrush.
Some of the key features of this toothbrush are:
Mid-Range Individual Product Reviews
Oral-B Pro 5000 SmartSeries
 |  |
|---|---|
| Brush Heads | 1 |
| Modes | 5 |
| Technology Used | Oscillating-Rotating |
| Battery Life and Voltage | 10 days (110-130 volts) |
| Pressure Sensor | |
| UV Sanitizer | |
| Tongue Cleaning Mode | |
| 2 Minute Brushing Timer | |
| Mouth Quadrant Timer | |
| Brush Head Replacement Indicator | No |
| Accessories | Charger/Brush Head Stand |
| International Usage | |
| Extra Features | Bluetooth Connectivity |
| Price | |
Pros
- 5 different cleaning modes (daily clean, gum care, sensitive, whitening, and deep clean)
- Comfortable grip that makes it easy to hang on to
- Built in timed brushing system
- Pressure sensor that visually alerts you if you are brushing too hard
- Bluetooth technology syncs with app and often is motivational for users
- Compatible with a variety of brushing heads
- Accepted by the American Dental Association
Cons
- Battery life is only 11 days (low compared to competitors’ similar models)
- Clinical looking design
- Does not automatically shut off when the cycle completes
- Would be nice if they included an extra brush head for this price point
- Many users report that this electric brush is very loud
- Users stated that the LED lights that indicate the toothbrush is charging are very bright and distracting when charging at night
The Oral-B Pro 5000 electric toothbrush is manufactured by Braun. It comes with 1 brush head, a charger, and a standard travel case in the box. This electronic toothbrush uses bluetooth communication between the brush and your smartphone. This gives you real-time feedback on your brushing habits.
The Oral B Pro 5000 comes equipped with Bluetooth, 3D cleaning action, a pressure sensor, 2 minute timer, quad pacer and 5 cleaning modes.
The brush uses 3D cleaning action with oscillating, rotating, and pulsating movement. This breaks up plaque and removes up to 2x more plaque along the gumline then a manual toothbrush. It has a pressure sensor with a light that glows if you brush too hard. It also has 5 cleaning modes: Clean, Gum Care, Sensitive, Whitening, and Deep Clean.
- Daily Clean – This is the standard mode that offers 2 minutes of cleaning with 30 seconds for each quadrant of the mouth. It uses 8,800 oscillations and 40,000 pulsations per minute.
- Gum Care – This is a gentler brushing mode and works best for those with sore, inflamed, or bleeding gums. It provides a gentle gum massage that stimulates blood flow and promotes healing in the gum tissue. To do this, this mode users slower speeds of 2,600-8,800 oscillations and 12,000-40,000 pulsations.
- Sensitive – This mode is also called the massage mode. It provides a gentler cleaning experience and works at around 6,500 oscillations and 30,000 pulsations per minute.
- Whitening – This mode gives you the “dentist clean” feeling and is safe to use daily. It does have a longer cleaning cycle with the first 2 minutes spent on a normal clean, and the final 20 seconds used to clean the front teeth more deeply. It uses 6,100-8,800 oscillations per minute, and between 28,000-40,000 pulsations per minute.
- Deep Clean – This mode functions just like the Daily Clean mode, only it lasts for 3 minutes instead of 2 minutes. This allows you to brush each quadrant for 45 seconds rather than 30 seconds. It runs at 8,800 oscillations and 40,000 pulsations per minute.
Its built in 2 minute timer encourages users to brush for the dentist recommended 2 minutes. It also features 30 second interval timers. This lets you know when it is time to move to a different section of your mouth for an even clean.
Some of the key features of the Oral-B Pro 5000 are:
Oral-B Pro 3000
|  |
|---|---|
| Brush Heads | 1 |
| Modes | 3 |
| Technology Used | Oscillating-Rotating |
| Battery Life and Voltage | 14 days (110-130 volts) |
| Pressure Sensor | |
| UV Sanitizer | |
| Tongue Cleaning Mode | |
| 2 Minute Brushing Timer | |
| Mouth Quadrant Timer | |
| Brush Head Replacement Indicator | |
| Accessories | Charger/Brush Head Stand |
| International Usage | |
| Extra Features | Bluetooth Connectivity |
| Price | |
Pros
- 3 cleaning modes (daily clean, gum care, and sensitive)
- Built in 2 minute timer (featuring an audible 30 second interval timer as well)
- Built in pressure sensor with visual alert to let you know if you are brushing too hard
- Includes brush head storage compartment
- Bluetooth connectivity to pair with smartphone app to track cleaning
- American Dental Association approved
Cons
- There is no indication of how much power is left in the brush, unless the battery is completely dead
- Clinical looking design
- Does not automatically shut off when the cycle completes
- Would be nice if they included an extra brush head for this price point
- Many users report that this electric brush is rather loud
- Some users report the brushing is too aggressive
The Oral-B Pro 3000 is another mid-tier electronic toothbrush made by Braun. It uses oscillating and rotating technology to remove more plaque than regular brushing. The brush also features bluetooth technology that connects your brush to an app for personalized brushing.
The handle features a timer that pulses every 30 seconds to let you know that it is time to switch areas of the mouth. The handle also has a pressure sensor that lights up if you are brushing too hard, protecting your gums. This product can work with a variety of Oral-B toothbrush heads.
This design also features bluetooth connecting your brush to an app for personalized brushing routines & monitoring.
The Oral-B Pro 3000 has a single button. One press of the button turns the brush on, while a second press will send it into gum care cleaning mode. A third press will activate a sensitive mode. A fourth a final press turns the brush off. You can also just press and hold the button for 2 seconds in any clean mode and it will power the brush down. The brush continues to operate at the end of a cycle unless you turn it off.
The Oral-B Pro 3000 has several key features:
Sonicare ProtectiveClean 6100
| |
|---|---|
| Brush Heads | 1 |
| Modes | 3 |
| Technology Used | Sonic |
| Battery Life and Voltage | 2 weeks (110-220 volts) |
| Pressure Sensor | |
| UV Sanitizer | |
| Tongue Cleaning Mode | |
| 2 Minute Brushing Timer | |
| Mouth Quadrant Timer | |
| Brush Head Replacement Indicator | |
| Accessories | Charger |
| International Usage | |
| Extra Features | BrushSync Mode-Pairing |
| Price | |
Pros
- 3 cleaning modes and intensities give users multiple options to find the perfect mode for their teeth
- Built in 2 minute timer with 30 second QuadPacer intervals
- Pressure sensor alert to tell you when you are brushing too hard
- Rechargeable battery that lasts for 3 weeks
- Includes travel case with the purchase price
- Automatically shuts off after 2 minute cycle is done
- Brush head reminder system alerts you when it is time to change brush heads
Cons
- This model does have a pressure sensor, but it would be nice if the sensor had a visual alert along with it
- Brush head prices with BrushSync technology (the system that alerts you it is time to change the brush head), typically are more expensive than other brush heads
- For some users, the lack of rubber grip can make grip an issue, but the matte paint helps make the body not too slick when wet
The Philips Sonicare ProtectiveClean 6100
uses sonic technology to sweep away plaque. This gives users significantly cleaner teeth than manual toothbrushes. It is also equipped with a built in pressure sensor that lets users know if they are brushing too hard. This helps protect teeth and gums.
This model has 3 different brushing modes and three intensities. Clean mode provides the standard, daily cleaning. White mode is used for removing surface stains. Gum Care mode adds an extra minute of reduced-power brushing. This allows you to gently massage your gums. The three intensity levels let you choose between a higher setting for a deeper clean, or a lower setting for a more sensitive mouth.
The Sonicare ProtectiveClean 6100 also has BrushSync replacement technology. Brush heads wear out over time, but this technology tracks how long you’ve been using your brush and how hard you’ve been brushing. When it comes time to replace the brush head, a light on the brush handle activates and a short beep lets you know. Often, the BrushSync brush heads are more expensive than other compatible brush heads. But they aren’t the only ones which work with the BrushSync technology. If you don’t mind not using the BrushSync feature, most Sonicare brush heads are compatible with this model. All Sonicare brush heads have blue fading indicator bristles. This show users its time to change brush heads as they fade from blue to white.
This model includes a brush replacement sensor, 2 minute timer, 30 second quad pacer, 3 brushing modes and 2 intensities.
This model also features a 2 minute timer, the dentist recommended length for teeth brushing. The QuadPacer feature tells you when you have spent the right amount of time in each quadrant of your mouth. This allows you to get an even clean. This model does come with a travel case and charger.
The Sonicare ProtectiveClean has two buttons on its handle. The top button is the power button (and has the power symbol on it) which turns the brush on and off. The lower button selects the cleaning mode and intensity.
The key features of the Sonicare ProtectiveClean 6100 are:
Sonicare FlexCare+
| |
|---|---|
| Brush Heads | 1 |
| Modes | 5 |
| Technology Used | Sonic |
| Battery Life and Voltage | 3 weeks (110-220 volts) |
| Pressure Sensor | |
| UV Sanitizer | |
| Tongue Cleaning Mode | |
| 2 Minute Brushing Timer | |
| Mouth Quadrant Timer | |
| Brush Head Replacement Indicator | |
| Accessories | Charger & Standard Travel Case |
| International Usage | |
| Extra Features | Easy Start Program |
| Price | |
Pros
- Offers 5 cleaning modes (clean, gum care, refresh, sensitive, massage)
- Offers brush head storage, which is handy for those sharing the brush handle
- The battery lasts up to three weeks
- The timer includes a quad pacer that ensures you brush for the right amount of time in each area of the mouth
- The power automatically shuts off after the 2 minutes are over, preserving battery life
- Brush head bristles fade over time from a blue to a paler blue/white color to remind you when it is time to change the brush head
- Travel case included
- Includes easy-start feature to help users learn how to use the brush
- Removes up to 6x more plaque than a manual toothbrush
Cons
- No pressure sensor included in this model
- Other brands in this price range offer bluetooth connectivity for similar models
- Would be nice if they included an extra brush head for this price point
- Basic design appearance is not particularly stylish
The Sonicare FlexCare+ is a mid-range electronic toothbrush offered from Philips Sonicare. It uses sonic technology to drive fluid between the teeth while stimulating gums. This removes up to 6x more plaque along the gumline than a manual toothbrush.
The Sonicare FlexCare+ features 5 brushing modes.
- Clean – every day cleaning mode
- Gum Care – 2 minutes for overall cleaning plus 1 minute to gently clean problem areas along the gumline
- Refresh – 1 minute quick touch up
- Sensitive – gentle teeth and gum cleaning with a 2 minute timer
- Massage – stimulates gums during this 2 minute brush mode
The Sonicare FlexCare+ uses an illuminated display, that when on, uses backlighting to show the selected brushing mode. It also has quadpacer technology that helps ensure brushing for the dentist recommended 2 minutes. This also encourages equal brushing of each quadrant of the mouth.
This model from Sonicare also has the Easy-Start option. This helps newer users ease into the power of an electric toothbrush. The Easy-Start option gradually increases the sonic power over the first 14 brushing session. Ultimately, the brush reaches 31,000 movements per minute.
Overall, this is a solid, well-built brush in the mid-end price range. It offers a separate power button and separate mode button. This allows you to select the brush mode before you power on. It cleans the teeth and gums well and has a 2 year warranty.
Key features include 5 different cleaning modes, 3 week battery life, 2 minute timer, 30 second quadrant pacer & automatic power off.
The key features of this electronic toothbrush are its:
High-End Individual Product Reviews
Oral-B Genius Pro 8000
| |
|---|---|
| Brush Heads | 3 |
| Modes | 6 |
| Technology Used | Oscillating-Rotating-Pulsating |
| Battery Life and Voltage | 14 days (110-130 volts) |
| Pressure Sensor | |
| UV Sanitizer | |
| Tongue Cleaning Mode | |
| 2 Minute Brushing Timer | |
| Mouth Quadrant Timer | |
| Brush Head Replacement Indicator | |
| Accessories | Standard Charger & Travel USB Charging Case |
| International Usage | |
| Extra Features | Bluetooth Connectivity & Position Detection |
| Price | |
Pros
- 6 different cleaning modes mean that even the pickiest user is sure to find a great fit for them, especially those focused on whitening and tongue cleaning
- The Genius Pro 8000 has the longest battery life of any Oral-B model
- The design is sleeker than other Oral-B models available
- The built in pressure sensor alerts you when you are brushing too hard with a red light
- SmartRing technology provides a fun way for users to customize their electronic toothbrush, illuminating in the user’s chosen color at 30 second intervals
- Includes a smart travel case with USB charging
- The Oral-B app and position detection technology help users stay engaged and on track while brushing their teeth and make it a more interactive experience
Cons
- While the design is sleeker than other Oral-B models out there, it does have some quirks
- There are only 5 LEDs, but 6 brush modes. This is just annoying and feels like an oversight that they did not put an LED on the handle for Daily Clean mode
- The app and position technology concept are nice, but some users complain that setting it up is a pain and not worth the effort for a 2 minute teeth brushing experience
- This brush is not cheap. You definitely pay for its premium features.
The Oral-B Genius 8000 model is the company’s most advanced electric toothbrush yet. It has position detection technology using your smartphone and facial recognition technology. This gives you real-time feedback on your brushing habits. The Oral-B app can pair the Genius Pro 8000 with your smartphone and the app will coach you on how to brush properly.
This model also comes with the 360 SmartRing technology. This lets you personalize your electric toothbrush by choosing from 12 different colors for your LED light on the brush. The SmartRing works with the 2 minute timer and pressure sensor to let you know when you are applying too much pressure when brushing. This helps protect your gums.
The Oral B Pro 8000 comes equipped with 3 brushing heads, 6 cleaning modes, bluetooth connectivity, a USB travel case charger, a brush head storage compartment and 2 weeks of battery life.
The Genius Pro 8000 comes with the premium Smart Travel Case. This charges your toothbrush and smartphone via a USB charger.
This model features 6 different cleaning modes, allowing users to find the right mode for their brushing needs. The cleaning modes are: Daily Clean, Gum Care, Sensitive, Whitening, Pro-Clean, and Tongue Cleaner.
Currently, this model is the very top of the line from Braun.
The Genius Pro 8000’s key features are:
Sonicare DiamondClean Smart 9300
| |
|---|---|
| Brush Heads | 3 |
| Modes | 4 |
| Technology Used | Sonic |
| Battery Life and Voltage | 2 Weeks (110-130 volts) |
| Pressure Sensor | |
| UV Sanitizer | |
| Tongue Cleaning Mode | No, but does come with tongue brush head |
| 2 Minute Brushing Timer | |
| Mouth Quadrant Timer | |
| Brush Head Replacement Indicator | |
| Accessories | Glass Charger & Premium Travel Case |
| International Usage | |
| Extra Features | Bluetooth Connectivity |
| Price | |
Pros
- The quality and feel of this brush and package are great
- The bluetooth connectivity option performs well and can make brushing more engaging
- 4 cleaning modes ensure that even the pickiest of users can find the right mode for them
- The travel case does a great job of protecting the toothbrush on the go
- Automatic power off at the end the brushing cycle helps preserve battery life
- Adjust the intensity settings by changing up the power coming from the brush motor
- This line is the first from Sonicare to offer a visible pressure sensor
Cons
- The higher end features definitely come at a higher end price
- The charging case could stand to have more room to hold extra brush heads
- While other electronic toothbrushes from Sonicare have 3 weeks of battery life, this one only has 2 weeks (due to its numerous features)
- No smartphone stand or holder to make using the app more convenient
The DiamondClean Smart 9300 is a high-end electronic toothbrush with several features. It comes with 4 performance brush heads that allow you to focus on all areas of oral health. It has Smart Sensor technology that provides personalized feedback and coaching for users.
The Sonicare DiamondClean Smart 9300 comes with three brush heads plus a TongueCare+ tongue brush. The Premium Plaque Control brush head focuses on removing plaque from hard to reach places. The Premium Gum Care brush head reduces gum inflammation. The Premium White brush head removes stains from the teeth when used in the whitening mode. Microchips within the brush head tell the DiamondClean Smart 9300 which head is in use. This way the toothbrush can determine the correct mode and intensity to use.
This Sonicare Electric Toothbrush comes with 3 brush heads, 4 cleaning modes, a tongue cleaner, bluetooth connectivity, global usage, a premum travel case, stylish glass charger and 2 weeks of battery life.
The Smart Sensors in this model provide real time feedback for uses through the Sonicare app. These sensors use location to show where you have brushed, and what areas of the mouth you have missed. It also has a pressure sensor with a visual alert if you brush too hard, which can lead to gum damage. You can also put any trouble spots your dentist may have pointed out into the 3D mouth map. The app will then remind you to show those areas some extra love.
The key features of this brush include:
Oral-B Pro 7500
| |
|---|---|
| Brush Heads | 3 |
| Modes | 5 |
| Technology Used | Oscillating-Rotating-Pulsating |
| Battery Life and Voltage | 2 Weeks (110-130 volts) |
| Pressure Sensor | |
| UV Sanitizer | |
| Tongue Cleaning Mode | |
| 2 Minute Brushing Timer | |
| Mouth Quadrant Timer | |
| Brush Head Replacement Indicator | |
| Accessories | Charger & Premium Case |
| International Usage | |
| Extra Features | Bluetooth Connectivity |
| Price | |
Pros
- Multiple cleaning modes – The Oral-B Pro 7500 has 5 different cleaning modes (Daily Clean, Gum Care, Sensitive, Whitening, and Pro-Clean)
- Pressure sensor – The built in visual pressure sensor shows you when you are brushing too hard, which can cause damage to the gums.
- Battery life – According to Braun, this model gets 14 days of battery life, using a Lithium-Ion battery. Some users report this model only gets 12 days of battery life.
- SmartRing – The SmartRing is customisable to one of 12 colors, giving the electronic toothbrush a more personal touch than lower end models. This SmartRing also illuminates at 30 second intervals, and glows red if pressure is too firm.
- Travel case – While it may seem small, throwing in a travel case is a very nice touch. Lower end models do not typically do this, and a travel case helps protect the brush as you travel.
- Bluetooth and Oral-B app – Is this necessary? No. Is it helpful? Yes. This provides an interactive way for people to clean their teeth with proper brushing technique.
Cons
- Similar models provide a smartphone stand so that would be a nice addition
- The last generation of this brush included a wireless smart guide timer, and this generation does not
- This brush is considerably more expensive than other electronic toothbrushes out there, so it is worth considering if you will use all of the added features
The Oral-B Pro 7500 is a higher end electric toothbrush and comes comes equipped with many features and colors. It uses oscillating technology to achieve cleaner teeth than if using a manual toothbrush.
The Oral B 7500 comes with 3 different brush heads, 5 cleaning modes, 360 degree SmartRing, a premium travel case, 2 minute timer, 30 second quadrant pacer and 2 weeks of battery life.
This model from Oral-B uses oscillating, rotating, and pulsating movements to remove 100% more plaque than a regular brush. It also offers triple pressure sensor technology and a rechargeable battery with a two week battery life.
The 360 degree SmartRing on the neck of the toothbrush lets users customize which color LED light they would like displayed. You can choose from 12 different color options. Is this a necessary feature? No. Is it fun? Yes.
The key features of the Oral-B Pro 7500 are:
Sonicare DiamondClean Smart 9750
| |
|---|---|
| Brush Heads | 4 |
| Modes | 5 |
| Technology Used | Sonic |
| Battery Life and Voltage | 21 days (110-220 volts) |
| Pressure Sensor | |
| UV Sanitizer | |
| Tongue Cleaning Mode | |
| 2 Minute Brushing Timer | |
| Mouth Quadrant Timer | |
| Brush Head Replacement Indicator | |
| Accessories | Stylish Glass Charger & Premium USB Charging Travel Case |
| International Usage | |
| Extra Features | Bluetooth Connectivity & Real Time Feedback |
| Price | |
Pros
- The quality and feel of this brush and package contents are superior to many options on the market
- The bluetooth connectivity option performs well and can make brushing more engaging for people of all ages
- 5 cleaning modes and 3 intensity settings ensure that even the pickiest of users can find the right mode for them
- The travel case does a great job of protecting the toothbrush on the go
- Automatic power off at the end the brushing cycle helps preserve battery life
- 3 weeks of battery life (or more!) is expected from use in every mode except the Gum Health mode, which gets 2 weeks of battery life
- The visible pressure sensor helps protect the health of users gums
Cons
- This electronic toothbrush is expensive. There’s just no way around it.
- It would be nice if the charging case held more brush heads
- No smartphone stand or holder is included in the purchase price, and for this price point, it definitely should be
The Philips Sonicare DiamondClean Smart 9750 is the top of the line offering from Sonicare. It removes up to 10x more plaque than a manual toothbrush, and improves gum health up to 7x in 2 weeks time.
The 5 different brushing modes and 3 different intensity settings make it highly customizable. The cleaning modes are: Clean, White+, Gum Health, Deep Clean+, and Tongue Care. Each box includes 1 DiamondClean brush handle, 1 C3 plaque control brush head, 1 G3 premium care brush head, 1 W3 premium white brush head, 1 TongueCare+ brush head, 1 glass charger, a USB charging travel case, and 1 brush head storage unit. Currently, this brush comes in only 1 color option, Lunar Blue.
The Philips Sonicare 9750 comes packed with 4 brush heads, 5 cleaning modes, a pressure sensor, 2 minute timer, a quad pacer, brush head replacement sensor, stylish glass charger, a USB travel case charger and 3 weeks of battery life.
The key features of this brush include:
Benefits of Using an Electronic Toothbrush
Brushing your teeth is the absolute foundation of excellent oral hygiene, care, and prevention. Electric toothbrushes have so many benefits, such as:
Keeping teeth, tongue, and gums cleaner
Chances are you were taught how to brush your teeth as a young child. But the fact of the matter is that despite our best efforts, we are not brushing as well as we should. This happens because the bristles on manual toothbrushes cannot remove all the plaque and tartar built up between your teeth.
Manual toothbrushes cannot remove plaque and tartar built up between your teeth.
An electronic toothbrush’s head rotates the bristles that can reach further because of the motion of the brush and pressure from the brush. This ensures that all areas of the mouth get equally as clean!
Encourages longer teeth brushing
Many electronic toothbrushes have built in timers for each quadrant of the mouth. This encourages brushers to brush longer and more thoroughly. This is especially helpful for kids!
Does most of the work for you
Electronic toothbrushes time the length of your teeth brushing, as well as help you do a great job. Electric toothbrushes help reach between the hard to get places and provide a more thorough clean. This takes the guesswork out of daily brushing.
Keep you from brushing too hard
Many of us try so hard to get our teeth and gums clean that we end up brushing them too hard. This causes injuries to gums, and can even lead to gum recession – and bad news – gum tissue does not grow back. Brushing too hard can also remove tooth enamel, leading to tooth sensitivity.
Brushing too hard can also remove tooth enamel, leading to tooth sensitivity.
Electric toothbrushes make it nearly impossible to brush too hard, because you are not in charge of the brushing! You simply hold the brush and move it from tooth to tooth while it does its job.
How to Choose the Right Electric Toothbrush
Electronic toothbrushes are a great investment to make towards your oral hygiene. There are so many makes and models and price points in this market place. That’s why its crucial to know what you should look for in your electric toothbrush.
The best electronic toothbrushes are:
Easy to Use:
Your electric toothbrush should be comfortable in your hands, easy to hold, and have simple controls that do not require an advanced medical degree to use. The size of the brush head and how it moves should also make it easy to move within the mouth.
Helpful Features:
Not all toothbrushes are created equally. Many electronic toothbrushes offer features such as teeth brushing timers, travel cases, charging stands, and more.
Long Lasting:
When investing in an electronic toothbrush, you deserve one that will have long-term durability. Most electronic toothbrush manufacturers recommend replacing brush heads every three months in order to preserve the life of the toothbrush itself.
Smooth Performance:
While this should go without saying, an electronic toothbrush should run smoothly. It should not surge or jerk, and should provide seamless brushing.