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.

Sequence of application and use

To get the maximum benefit from using an ultrasonic electric brush, you need to follow several important rules :

Before turning on the device, check its charge .
Brush your teeth twice a day with a small amount of toothpaste.
Hold the product at an angle of 45 degrees when cleaning the side surfaces of the teeth from the inside and outside.
Slowly move the work head in one direction. You should stay on one tooth for no more than three seconds.
When brushing your front teeth, hold the device vertically.
When cleaning the chewing teeth, move the brush to a horizontal position.
Carry out the procedure in such a way that the villi affect not only the enamel, but also the gums.
After turning off the device, rinse the bristles well with running water and rinse your mouth.

To maintain the ultrasonic cleaning device in working condition, it is necessary to charge the battery or change the batteries in a timely manner. Also, do not immerse the device in water.

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.

Disadvantages of devices

Despite the apparent advantages, these devices have certain disadvantages. These include:

price – the minimum cost of the device is several thousand rubles;
presence of contraindications.

Before you start using the brush, you should consider certain contraindications:

Pregnant women should not use the device. The restriction applies in the first trimester;
It is important to be careful for people who have caries on the enamel in the white spot stage. Using a brush too often can aggravate the situation and cause tissue damage;
The device should not be used by persons with old-type pacemakers.

Important! In any case, before starting to use the device, you should not only carefully study the instructions and make sure there are no contraindications, but also consult with your doctor.

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.

Ultrasonic

The main difference from sonic brushes is the high frequency of rotation, which removes not only soft plaque, but also mineralized dental stones and pigment spots , making the enamel perfectly smooth, thanks to ultrasonic vibrations.

Stay up to date! These brushes are powered by an electric motor that converts electricity into high-frequency ultrasonic waves that are transmitted to the bristles.

During hygiene procedures, a person may feel some warmth, which is rather a positive effect.

After all, a slight increase in temperature accelerates blood circulation in the gum tissue.

The best ultrasound models for adults - TOP 4 devices.

Donfeel HSD-015

A model that combines advanced oral care technologies, cost-effectiveness and health benefits.

A brush created for people who value benefits, convenience, reliability and quality.

The manufacturer has equipped the device with the most powerful battery. With regular use twice a day, the brush will not require recharging for more than 6 weeks.

To the three standard modes (daily cleaning, whitening, massage), two more have been added - soft cleaning for sensitive enamel and polishing.

The set includes three interchangeable nozzles of medium hardness.

The main feature of the device is a UV lamp built into the charging station, which allows you to clean the brush from pathogenic bacteria and fungi without additional means.

Specifications:

Purpose: for adults and children.
Power type: battery.
Nozzle included: three standard nozzles included.
Modes: daily reading, delicate cleaning for sensitive enamel, whitening, massage, polishing.
Additional functionality: timer, charge indicator.

Advantages

The optimum ratio of price and quality.
Visibly whitens teeth with regular use.
Rich factory equipment.
The components are inexpensive.
An ultraviolet lamp makes the cleaning process even safer and better.

Flaws

At first it seems that it is cleaning too aggressively.
The UV lamp is not covered by the warranty.
The base is not intended for storage in the bathroom.

VES electric RLT204

An affordable mid-price model designed for high-quality oral care.

The brush works based on 2D sonic cleaning. The electric drive causes the bristles to oscillate at a frequency of 800 Hz.

Vibration creates active foam from a small pea of toothpaste, penetrating into the interdental spaces and gum pockets, removing dirt and plaque.

The basic kit includes a replaceable nozzle with an oval head and special DuPont bristles.

Specifications:

Purpose: for adults and children.
Power type: battery.
Nozzle included: standard nozzles included.
Modes: daily cleaning, delicate cleaning, whitening, massage, polishing.
Additional functionality: timer, charging indication.

Advantages

Affordable price.
Multifunctionality.
Attractive design.
Energy-intensive battery.
High quality build and materials.

Flaws

No synchronization with mobile device.
The included attachments are difficult to put on and secure.
A tickling sensation may occur during brushing.

Emmi-dent 6 Platinum

A brush from a German manufacturer that embodies unique innovative developments in the field of teeth cleaning.

This model uses ultrasound technologies similar to those used in neurology, ophthalmology, gastroenterology and other medical fields.

High-purity vibrations qualitatively clean the entire oral cavity, preventing the development of caries and inflammatory processes of mucous tissues.

Implants, crowns, bridges and other orthodontic structures are not a contraindication for use.

Specifications:

Purpose: for adults and children.
Power type: battery.
Nozzle included: standard nozzle included.
Modes: daily cleaning.
Additional functionality: timer, charging indicator.

Advantages

High quality build.
Battery charge indicator.
Unusual and attractive design.
Country of origin: Germany.
The feeling of cleanliness and freshness lasts from morning to evening cleansing.

Flaws

It is more expensive compared to analogues.
No additional modes.
The gums may bleed slightly at first.

Emmi-dent 6 Professional

One of the most modern models of electric brushes operating on 100% ultrasound.

The design of the brush has been improved in accordance with all the wishes of consumers.

The on/off area is located on the handle, and the electronics are modernized.

The battery capacity is increased to cover all functionality.

Thanks to ultrasound technology, the good thing about this model is that all cleaning is done motionlessly, without injuring the gums and enamel.

Specifications:

Purpose: for adults and children.
Power type: battery.
Nozzle included: standard nozzles included.
Modes: daily cleaning.

Advantages

Prevents inflammation and minimizes existing processes.
Great for people with sensitive enamel.
Works for a long time on one charge.
Removes plaque well.
Cleans the entire oral cavity efficiently.

Flaws

There is no charge level indicator.
You'll have to get used to the noticeable vibration.
You need to buy new attachments every 3-4 months.

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.

Consumer Reviews

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

Ekaterina Sviridova, Yaroslav.
After the tartar removal procedure, the dentist advised me to change my regular brush to an ultrasonic model.
To be honest, I had never heard of such a device, but the doctor gave some advice on choosing a brush and on the same day I purchased a device from Oral B.
I’ve been using it for almost 3 months, not every day, 4 times a week, so as not to harm my teeth. I am completely satisfied with the brush; it cleans hard-to-reach places well and prevents the formation of tartar. I recommend.

Mikhail But-Gusaim, Moscow.
All ultrasonic brushes from leading brands are expensive, and since I didn’t want to spend large sums on a device that might turn out to be ineffective, I decided to buy a Donfeel HSD-005 device from a Russian manufacturer.
A brush with two operating modes and a comfortable handle, runs on batteries.
The working head has soft fluff, which I immediately identified as a minus, although it really does clean well. It was not possible to get rid of tartar, but overall the effect is good.

Andrey Skomorokh, Stavropol.
I purchased an ultrasonic brush from Philips about three years ago. At that time, it was one of the most budget-friendly and simple models without additional functions such as gum massage or display.
Despite its modest technical characteristics, the brush cleans teeth efficiently and even removes tartar little by little.
It takes a long time to charge (almost a day), but the charge lasts for 2-3 weeks. In three years I’ve used a regular brush 4 times and I don’t plan to go back to it.

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.

Dentist reviews

Today, brushing teeth using sound vibrations at home is available to almost every person.
Unfortunately, I cannot call the invention of the ultrasonic brush an advantage of technological progress.
Indeed, with the advent of electrical devices for oral care, the number of patients complaining of constant pain in the teeth and the development of inflammatory processes has increased.
I do not recommend using such brushes on an ongoing basis.

Dental devices with ultrasonic action have a beneficial effect on the condition of teeth and gums, thoroughly cleaning the oral cavity from pathogenic bacteria, food debris between teeth and plaque.
I believe that fears about the negative impact of ultrasound on the body are groundless, since the power of ultrasonic brushes is low.
It allows waves to penetrate a layer of 4-5 mm - this is enough to safely remove contaminants.

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.

Sound

Sonic devices clean the oral cavity using a special technology: a special membrane generates sound vibration waves that cause the bristles of the brush to vibrate.

You should know! The sonic brush whips up a uniform airy foam from toothpaste, which helps effectively clean hard-to-reach places from plaque and food debris.

The TOP 5 sonic toothbrushes are represented by the following models.

Acleon F36/F38

Multifunctional toothbrush Acleon F36/F38 in black and white. The characteristics of models with different designs do not differ.

To see a review of the model, follow the link.

The brush has a wide range of functions. The waterproof housing ensures the durability of the device. Charging is carried out within 1 hour, while the autonomy of the brush is enough for 2 weeks of use.

There are four cleaning modes: whitening, gum massage, soft mode for sensitive teeth and standard cleaning.

The Akleon brush also has a timer for 30 seconds, which will tell you when to move to another area of the dentition, and for 2 minutes, which is the optimal brushing time.

The set includes 5 attachments, two of which are for orthodontic structures (braces). The package also includes a case with a disinfecting attachment with an ultraviolet lamp.

Specifications:

Power type: battery.
Number of attachments included: 3 standard, 2 orthodontic.
Battery life: 2 hours.
Modes: soft, gum massage, whitening, standard.

Advantages

Presence of a timer.
Charge level indication.
Availability of different cleaning modes.
A large number of attachments included..

Flaws

None.

CS Medica CS-167

The CS Medica CS-167 electric sonic toothbrush helps provide complete oral care. The brush is intended for adults and children over 12 years old.

The laconic design in the Japanese style is made in two color options - black and white.

The brush body is waterproof. This allows you to protect the internal mechanism of the device from moisture. This model can be used even while you are taking a shower.

The package includes everything you need: a protective cap, a battery and 2 attachments.

The weight of the CS Medica CS-167 model is only 20 g. It is a compact and lightweight device, simple and easy to use.

The vibration frequency of the brush is 28,000 movements per minute, which determines its high cleaning ability.

CS Medica CS-167 operates from one battery, the operating life is about 120 days. Along with the brush you receive spare attachments that need to be changed every 3 months. Please note that attachments can be purchased separately.

Specifications:

Purpose: for adults and children.
Power type: batteries.
Nozzle included: 2 pcs (standard).
Maximum speed: 28,000 pulsations per minute.

Advantages

Compact model.
Can be used in the shower.
Battery operated.
Soft bristles.
Possibility to additionally purchase new attachments.

Flaws

Not detected.

Philips Sonicare DiamondClean HX9332/35

The head with dense tufts of bristles ensures high-quality enamel cleaning and gentle oral care.

The brush is equipped with five operating modes, which are more than enough for comprehensive oral hygiene.

Suitable for caring for sensitive gums - the bristles are gentle and do not irritate mucous tissues.

The plaque removal function makes teeth smooth and shiny. There is a separate nozzle for cleaning the tongue.

The built-in timer reminds you to move the cleaning head along the teeth every 30 seconds. The indicator on the case displays not only the condition of the battery, but also the degree of wear of the nozzle.

Specifications:

Purpose: for adults.
Power type: battery.
Nozzle included: standard and whitening nozzle.
Modes: daily cleaning, delicate cleaning, massage, whitening.
Battery life: up to 3 weeks.
Additional functionality: charging indicator, timer.

Advantages

The kit includes a case with the ability to recharge.
Nice design.
The brush is simple and intuitive to use.
Additional attachments included.
Five operating modes.

Flaws

High price compared to analogues.
Cleaning may feel uncomfortable at first.
The main button gets stuck periodically.

CS Medica CS-33

A stylish toothbrush with all the modes necessary for high-quality daily oral care.

A medium-hard brush that suits most people. The device is equipped with an automatic shut-off function, which is activated after 2 minutes from the start of cleaning.

Five different operating modes provide not only high-quality cleaning, but also massage of the gums.

The built-in powerful battery holds a full charge for 48 minutes, and to recharge you just need to use a special adapter.

Specifications:

Purpose: for adults.
Power type: battery.
Nozzle included: standard and whitening nozzle.
Modes: daily cleaning, whitening, polishing, massage.
Battery life: 48 minutes of continuous operation.
Additional functionality: timer, charge indicator.

Advantages

Attractive and modern design.
Nice to hold in your hand.
Convenient charger.
The quality of cleaning can be compared to professional oral hygiene.
Durable metal attachment for attachment.

Flaws

There is no additional stand without recharging.
There is only one nozzle included.
There is no case for storage and transportation.

Soocas X3

Highly effective toothbrush made of matte plastic, made in a stylish white gold or black gold design.

A household smart device that supports synchronization with a smartphone application.

The basic functionality of the settings can be expanded using the Mi Home smart home application.

Four operating modes and a built-in timer provide the highest quality teeth cleaning, suitable for most categories of users.

The “gum care” mode makes the hygiene procedure gentle and safe for those who have bleeding gums due to illness or recent surgery, and the whitening mode helps tidy up the teeth of a smoker or an avid coffee drinker.

Specifications:

Purpose: for adults.
Power type: battery.
Nozzle included: standard nozzle.
Modes: daily cleaning, delicate cleaning “sensitive gums”, whitening, massage.
Additional functionality: timer, charge level indicator, synchronization with a smartphone.

Advantages

It efficiently removes even hard plaque.
Convenient and informative application.
Good autonomy.
Teeth are smooth and shiny after the first procedure.
The functionality is suitable for any needs.

Flaws

After a while it begins to vibrate noticeably in your hand.
Quite heavy.
Slow to charge.
Expensive replacement tips.

Philips Sonicare DiamondClean HX9352/04

Returns natural whiteness to teeth twice as fast as compared to analogues.

This stylish black toothbrush attracts not only its design, but also its wide functionality.

The main oval head is equipped with medium-hard bristles, which is suitable for most categories of users.

The additional attachment provides high-quality enamel whitening and tartar removal. The charging base is made in a very original way - in the form of a glass with a USB cable.

The indicator will indicate when it is necessary to connect the device to the charging base.

Specifications:

Purpose: for adults.
Power type: battery.
Nozzle included: whitening nozzle.
Modes: daily cleaning, delicate cleaning, whitening, massage, polishing.
Additional functionality: timer, charging indicator.

Advantages

Cleans teeth quickly and efficiently.
The battery holds a charge for about two weeks of regular use.
The set includes a hard case for easy transportation.
Trains you to brush your teeth for exactly 2 minutes.
All modes are really important and necessary.

Flaws

The metal rod on which the nozzle is attached can fall off over time.
Replacing the battery is equivalent to buying a new brush.
High price for nozzles.

Revyline RL 010

A modern high-tech device that ensures high-quality removal of plaque from the surface of teeth.

The brush effectively removes coffee and tobacco yellowness from tooth enamel, dissolves soft plaque and softens hard plaque.

Five built-in operating modes provide optimal oral care for people of all ages.

It fits comfortably in your hand – it doesn’t slip and doesn’t seem too heavy. Thanks to its attractive high-tech design, it can become a real decoration for a bathroom shelf.

Specifications: