How to choose an electric toothbrush

Electric toothbrushes are becoming increasingly popular. They allow you to quickly clean your mouth of food debris and remove plaque from your teeth. They are suitable for almost everyone, including small children. Let's try to figure out how to choose the right electric toothbrush and what functions it should have.

Daily hygiene routines can be made easier, faster and more effective by using modern devices, such as an electric toothbrush.

It removes food debris from the oral cavity better than manual dentistry and cleans plaque from tooth enamel. With its help it is possible to prevent the formation of stones, caries, periodontal disease

How electric brushes work

An electric toothbrush is powered by a battery or battery. Removal of plaque and food debris from teeth is carried out by vibration of the bristles. Depending on the type of brush, the bristles may move up and down or perform a reciprocating motion. The most modern models operate on the basis of sound or ultrasonic waves.

An electric toothbrush consists of a brush head that can be replaced, a holder barrel and a handle that contains a motor and a battery. The device looks almost the same as a regular manual brush, except that its handle is slightly wider in diameter.

Pros and cons of electric brushes

The advantages of electric brushes are as follows:

Cleanses the oral cavity better, including in hard-to-reach places, as shown by medical studies.
Reduces dental care time by almost 2 times. Typically, such brushes have a timer, which 2 minutes after the start of the procedure signals the need to complete it.
Does not require physical effort during cleaning. Plaque is removed even with light contact of the bristles with the teeth. Thanks to this, the electric brush can be used by children, as well as people with fractures, muscle atrophy and limited mobility.
They are available with various attachments: for caring for braces, massage, etc. The whole family can use one device; it is only necessary that each person has their own attachment.

The only disadvantage of electric brushes is their high price. However, their effectiveness is higher than that of manual ones. True, electric brushes are not suitable for everyone. There are contraindications to their use:

age up to 3 years;
pathological abrasion of enamel;
wedge-shaped tooth defect;
poor mineralization, white spots on the enamel.

Before purchasing an electric brush, you should visit a doctor to rule out contraindications. He will also recommend a specific model or manufacturer. Let's look at the types of electric brushes.

Types of electric toothbrushes

The benefits of electric toothbrushes are undeniable. It remains to decide on the type of device and the specific model. There are 4 types of such devices:

Conventional (classical, subsonic). An electronic board is built into the brush handle that regulates the movements of the head. It makes several thousand rotations per minute. The device allows you to quickly remove plaque and food debris, but is not very effective in cleaning hard-to-reach places and is not able to remove deep deposits from teeth. These devices may vary depending on the head rotation speed and additional functions. Both cheap and expensive models are available. Regular electric toothbrushes are especially suitable for children and people with sensitive teeth.
Sound. They work using membrane technology: a special membrane creates sound waves that transmit vibrations to the villi and make them move. The device operates at a speed of 20 thousand revolutions per minute. Vibration and sound waves destroy dental plaque and remove germs even from hard-to-reach places. Such devices are suitable for almost everyone, including people with braces and implants, for whom ultrasonic models are contraindicated.
Ultrasonic. Technological multifunctional brushes that operate almost silently, but at the same time generate vibrations with a frequency of 1.6 MHz. Ultrasound is better at removing dental plaque. When brushing your teeth with an ultrasonic brush, you can feel warmth in your mouth, which is caused by sound vibrations. Due to this, blood flow in the gums is stimulated and their bleeding is reduced.

Ionic. Inside the brush is a titanium dioxide strip that releases negative ions once the device is connected to an electrical circuit. Thanks to them, the components of toothpaste that have a healing effect become more effective. In addition, ions help disinfect the oral cavity. Otherwise, the operating principle of ionic brushes is similar to standard, sonic and ultrasonic ones.

These are the main types of toothbrushes. There are also classifications that divide these devices into varieties according to the type of power (battery or accumulator) and the type of movement of the bristles (up and down or reciprocating). We'll tell you how to choose the right toothbrush. When choosing, you need to pay attention to several criteria.

How to choose a toothbrush: selection criteria

To choose the right electric toothbrush, you need to consider many parameters. They can be divided into two groups. The first group includes the characteristics of the person who will use the device: age, jaw structure, health of teeth and gums, the presence or absence of orthodontic structures, etc. The second group includes device parameters. Among them:

Head size and shape. Its diameter can be from 1.3 to 1.6 cm. Choose a brush whose bristles cover no more than two teeth. Round, rather than oval, heads are more convenient, as they allow you to reach the most difficult to reach places.
The shape of the bristles and their number. All electric brushes are multi-beam. Adults should choose models with 55 or more bundles. Devices with fewer numbers are suitable for children. The shape of the villi is also very important. It is advisable to choose brushes with pointed bristles - they better remove plaque and food debris from the interdental spaces.
Rigidity. If your enamel and gums are sensitive, you should choose brushes with soft bristles so as not to injure the oral cavity. They are also suitable if you have dentures. Medium-hard bristles are suitable for all people with healthy teeth and gums. It is better to use hard brushes only as prescribed by your dentist.
Nozzle functions. Electric toothbrushes are sold with one or two standard heads. You can buy additional ones: whitening, polishing, massage, etc. People with braces will need special attachments. In addition, the standard one may not be suitable for large gaps between teeth. In such cases, it is better to purchase an additional one.

Type of head movement. Oscillations can occur up and down or in a circle. The method of its use depends on the operating principle of the electric brush.
Pressure sensor. More expensive models are equipped with a pressure indicator, which increases the safety of brushing: the device will turn off if you press hard on your teeth. It is advisable to buy brushes with a sensor for children and those with increased sensitivity of the gums and enamel.
Timer. Not all devices have timers, but this is a very important option that allows you to complete the hygiene procedure on time. It should last no more than two minutes. The brush with a timer will notify you with a signal when it is necessary to complete cleaning. The device could be more functional. Some models beep every 30 seconds so that the person moves on to clean a different area of the mouth.
Type of food. Devices with batteries are more expensive, but they are more convenient. They are usually charged via a USB cable. Such brushes have a lower specific gravity than those powered by batteries. The second type is suitable for people who travel frequently. It’s easier to replace a battery on a train or plane than to look for a power outlet.
Convenience. The brush is selected individually. It should not cause discomfort, otherwise you will not be able to carry out the procedure efficiently and safely.

Price is also a significant factor. It is not a fact that the most expensive model will suit you.

A good electric toothbrush can be found in the mid-price category.

The main selection criteria should be medical indications and technical parameters of the device.

Which one to choose: parameters

Important! To know how and which electric toothbrush to choose for an adult, you need to carefully study each characteristic.

It is worth studying the performance of the body and cleaning attachments, as well as other parameters.

Type of brush

It is very difficult to say unequivocally which option will be the best for a particular consumer.
After all, it is necessary, first of all, to take into account contraindications for a particular type of device.

If we are talking about an absolutely healthy person, then he should pay attention to sound and ultrasound models.

The efficiency is significantly higher than that of a mechanical device. And ultrasonic ones also more carefully clean off plaque and all kinds of dirt.

Cleaning mode

Keep in mind! Many manufacturers offer devices with only a single operating mode.

And others build in up to 5 different degrees of intensity in combination with special attachments.

If there is no need for these “bells and whistles”, then you shouldn’t overpay.

As practice shows, not everyone uses the full potential of their brushes for daily dental care.

If you have never used electric toothbrushes before, it is better to opt for models that are equipped with a “habituation” mode.

This will make it much easier to adapt to cleaning with moving bristles.

Operation speed

Remember! This indicator directly affects the cleaning efficiency.

Therefore, models that are designated as high-performance will cope best even with tartar.

If the speed is even the minimum allowable, the device is still much more effective than a standard toothbrush.

Brush head shape

The round shape of the cleaning head or a slightly elongated one for the oral cavity creates a more comfortable feeling.

However, if the device is equipped with rectangular heads, then it is necessary to find out all its functionality.

As a rule, such devices are equipped with additional specific functions.

Size

Note! Many consumers consider this parameter to be paramount.

After all, too large or small devices will be inconvenient to hold during the cleaning process.

Therefore, you need to look for the most comfortable size of electric toothbrush for men’s and women’s hands.

Rigidity

The degree of hardness of the bristles of the nozzle will not always bring the desired effect under different operating modes of the device.
So, for use with braces or implants, you cannot install attachments of medium and high hardness , as they can cause harm.

For regular tooth , medium hardness is best.

Since high-frequency or high-speed movements will bring maximum effect with gentle interaction with the enamel and soft tissues of the oral cavity.

Bristle material

For your information! Depending on the manufacturer, the bristles can be made of different materials, and can also be processed with a laser or other method for more comfortable cleaning.

If an allergic reaction to latex is observed, then it is necessary to look for the presence of this component in the composition of the pile and refuse such devices.

The most commonly used are synthetic and nylon bristles , which are absolutely harmless to health.
Some manufacturers add special dyes.
They are wiped off over time to make it easier to determine the level of wear on the cleaning head .

Also, color coding can indicate the purpose of the replacement nozzle.

Pen

During operation, due to the rotation of the motor in the handle, weak vibrations are created, which, when the brush body comes into contact with water, can push the device out of the hand.

Stay up to date! It is necessary to take into account the presence of an anti-slip coating or body material, or a rubberized handle.

If the brush is not held securely , then random movements can cause the seal to break as a result of being hit by a hard part of the nozzle.

Nozzles

In the simplest configuration, manufacturers offer only one standard attachment , which has medium-hard bristles.
In the future, the device can be equipped with special attachments depending on the model range of equipment of one brand.

Some companies produce entire sets with 3, 4 or 5 nozzles that perform different functions.

They whiten the enamel, massage the gums, clean plaque, break up tartar, polish the tooth surface, etc.

Important! If the device is purchased by very active and busy people for daily hygiene, then it is better to choose standard models.

After all, limited time in the morning and evening will still not allow you to use all the functionality according to the rules.

Additional functions

Among the various additional functions is UV disinfection.
Due to this, the bristles and even the device itself in some device models are completely cleaned of bacteria and pathogenic microorganisms.

Having a cap for the nozzle, a special container for the cleaning heads or a case for the entire device will be useful for those who make long trips, business trips or travel.

Power type

You should know! There are three types of power supplies for electric toothbrushes:

AA batteries, rechargeable or regular;
lithium-ion built-in batteries;
Batteries that support contactless charging function.

The last two types allow the manufacturer to hermetically protect the housing . This increases the service life of the device by protecting the inside from moisture and other contaminants.

If the model is powered by regular batteries , then its cost is usually an order of magnitude lower than devices with a built-in battery.

Weight

Reference! Massive or lightweight devices are available. As a rule, ultrasonic and sonic models are heavier due to more powerful filling.

There is also a tendency to increase weight in devices with built-in batteries that can hold a charge for a long time.

Built-in timer

To ensure that cleaning is as effective as possible and does not harm your teeth and gums, manufacturers build in a 2-minute timer.
It either signals the end of the dentist-recommended brushing time or turns off the device.

It is also common to use beeps every 30 seconds to move the brushing process to the other quarter of the row of teeth.

This makes the procedure more uniform and effective.

Adjusting the degree of pressure

Remember! Depending on the cost and functionality of the device, it may have a built-in pressure sensor.

As a result of too much pressure or excessive pressure on the teeth or gums, the brush turns off , signals a light or vibrating signal, or is deflected.

This function is very useful because it prevents the destruction of enamel and damage to soft tissues as a result of too strong a mechanical impact.

How to choose an electric toothbrush for adults and children

A few more tips to consider when purchasing electric toothbrushes:

If you have fillings, crowns and veneers, sonic and standard brushes are recommended. Ultrasonics can destroy the bonding components and lead to separation of the artificial material from the tooth. If there are no dental problems, you can use an electric ultrasonic toothbrush.
For soft cleaning, devices with circular movements of the head are preferable. Vibrating models are more powerful. The first option is suitable for children, and the second option for adults with healthy teeth and gums.
When buying a brush for a child, choose a device with a rotation speed of up to 18 thousand per minute to protect fragile tooth enamel from excessive stress.
It is better to choose brushes with synthetic bristles, since natural bristles are more susceptible to microorganisms. Devices made from natural materials will be an alternative if you are allergic to synthetics.

So, which electric toothbrush should you choose? We will describe specific models from different manufacturers.

Reviews

Below are some customer reviews. If you have something to say, leave your feedback in the comments below the article, it will be useful to our readers.

Elena Popova, 33 years old.
I chose a brush for a child as a gift so that my daughter would love brushing her teeth, but I decided to buy one for myself.
For a long time I doubted which type to choose, since most attention is paid to the appearance, and only then to the functions, capabilities and comfort.
The managers advised me to take an ultrasound if there was no problem with funds, which I did. Now every morning my daughter and I buzz in front of the mirror.

Dmitry Konyukhov, 24 years old.
My brush broke, so I decided not to repair it, but to buy a new one. Moreover, it served for 4 years and was pretty shabby.
I also bought a mechanical brush, but two months ago I was simply overwhelmed by the number of types, models, sizes and designs.
Of course, I didn’t get the ultrasonic one, but I bought a very good sound one. The feeling of clean teeth and fresh breath is many times better than after my “old lady”.

Konstantin Ivanovich, 56 years old.
My doctor advised me to use an electric toothbrush. There is always a problem with stones. No matter what I did, I went on a diet, I didn’t eat sweets, but they still appeared on my lower teeth.
In a word, I was tired of eternal brushing and scraping of teeth (painfully unpleasant sensations), I decided to buy.
I chose an ultrasound model, which is not the most expensive, since my health allows it and I don’t have a pacemaker or other sores in my mouth. Now I completely forgot about the stones and plaque.

Which electric toothbrush to buy

You can find a good electric brush in our online store. Popular models are:

Oral-B Pro 500 Cross Action D16 is one of the most inexpensive multifunctional toothbrushes. Its bristles are located at an angle of 16°, which allows you to more thoroughly clean the oral cavity of food debris. The device is equipped with a timer that warns of the need to change the position of the head after 30 seconds and the completion of the procedure after 2 minutes. The device runs on a battery that lasts for 2 weeks of daily use.
Philips Sonicare 2 series Plaque Control HX6212/87 is a brush that uses Easy-start quick adaptation technology. You won’t have to get used to it even if your teeth are sensitive. The vibration intensity can be adjusted over 14 cycles. The device works with a Smartimer timer that beeps every 30 seconds and 2 minutes. The bristles have indicators: they fade over time, reminding you of the need to replace the nozzle.
CS Medica SonicPulsar CS-262 is a good electric toothbrush in the mid-price category. The device operates in two modes, delivering pulses with a frequency of 28 and 33 thousand per minute. The timer indicates the end of brushing after 2 minutes. The brush operates on two AA batteries.
Revyline RL 010 is a stylish black toothbrush with a streamlined shape and a comfortable handle. The device creates 28-33 thousand bristle movements per minute and works without recharging for 35 days when using the device in the morning and evening. The kit includes three attachments and a case. There are several modes of operation, including delicate cleaning and massage. Moreover, each of them has three degrees of intensity. Due to its versatility, the brush is suitable even for hypersensitive teeth and gums.
Emmi-Dent 6 Professional is an ultrasonic brush that makes almost no noise. With its help, you can carefully brush your teeth without harming soft tissues, even if your gums are sensitive and bleeding. The device can be used by those who have orthodontic structures. One of the nozzles is designed for cleaning them, the second is standard.
Hapica Kids DBK-1 is an electric brush for children aged 3 to 10 years. Head size is 65% smaller than adult brushes. This is a very easy-to-use device that will be easy to handle even for a small child. The device runs on AA batteries (1 pc.).

These and other electric toothbrushes are presented in the catalog of our store.

Rating of the best brands

Of the variety of brands on the market, there are several devices that have earned special recognition from users and experts. Below is a rating of the most popular manufacturers and models of electric toothbrushes.

Oral-B Professional Care 700 device

Oral-B is one of the leading companies in the production of modern, new generation electric brushes. This model has a standard rounded head shape - for cleaning each tooth one by one. Includes an additional nozzle with colored bristles. Combined technique with almost 9 thousand directed and 20 thousand pulsating movements per minute.

Oral-B Professional Care 700

“I use electric OralBi. In my opinion, it is very convenient and effective. After the morning procedure, your teeth are clean and white, your breath is fresh. There is a pressure sensor, the brush itself does not injure your teeth or scratch your gums. I didn't experience any hypersensitivity. For me personally, this is the best option, at least more effective than a regular plastic brush...”
Sveta78, St. Petersburg, from correspondence on the woman.ru forum

It is recharged via a battery, from a special base that comes included. A pressure sensor is provided to protect against enamel injury. A good option in the mid-price segment.

Kolibree V1 device

The bristles make low-amplitude oscillations - about 15 thousand per minute. It provides one mode, which, nevertheless, copes with its task perfectly. The set includes 2 more attachments, the hardness is medium, some areas are painted with safe food coloring. There is also a built-in timer, battery, Bluetooth, and the ability to connect to a special application on a smartphone to view statistics on the quality of cleaning and the time spent on the procedure.

Kolibree V1

Oral-B Smart 6 6000N

The set includes 3 attachments, all round, designed to treat each tooth separately. There are specimens for whitening, and the device itself provides several modes: delicate, massage, whitening and standard. The movements of the working area are combined: directional - 10.5 thousand per minute, pulsating - 48 thousand per minute. Rechargeable charging and the ability to synchronize with a smartphone via built-in Bluetooth. There is also a pressure sensor and dye on the bristles for timely replacement of the nozzle.

Oral-B Smart 6 6000N

Philips Sonicare DiamondClean model

Option with display and impressive functionality. The set includes 2 standard attachments, several operating modes are provided: massage, whitening, delicate and universal. The brush makes up to 31 thousand movements per minute, and the device itself is charged from the mains via a built-in battery. The display shows information for switching modes and other necessary data for the user. There is a built-in timer that regulates the optimal duration of the procedure.

Philips Sonicare DiamondClean model

Oral-B Genius 9000 brush

The model is presented in 3 color interpretations: white, black and rose gold. There is a built-in timer and pressure sensor. In addition, the device offers the ability to recognize insufficiently cleaned areas. Provides thorough removal of plaque and deposits, as well as gentle gum massage. The set includes 4 attachments: for 3D whitening, softening and removing plaque, treating sensitive areas, removing bacteria and food debris from interdental spaces.

Oral-B Genius 9000