Experts recommend you brush twice per day to keep your gums and teeth healthy, but how and what you brush with ultimately determine what you get from that time you spend in front of the mirror.
Many people are now using electric toothbrushes to try and make the most out of their tooth-brushing routine. There’s definite wisdom to that. The American Dental Association states that brushing with a manual toothbrush is equally effective at removing plaque as brushing with an electric toothbrush when it’s done correctly; however, studies show that only about 10 percent of all people brush their teeth correctly on their own.
So for most of us, switching to an electric toothbrush can likely lead to improvements in oral health. But then comes a big question–which of the hundreds on the market should you buy? We did an analysis to compare the most popular models on the market and put together this quick list of the best.
How We Compared Brushes
When you begin to shop for electric toothbrushes, you’ll quickly find that they fall into three different categories:
1. Professional Grade Toothbrushes That Cost $100 or More
2. High End Rechargeable Toothbrushes That Cost Between $25 and $100
3. Bargain Disposable Toothbrushes That Cost Less Than $25
Not everyone has the means or desire to spend $100 or even $50 on a toothbrush, so we decided to compare apples to apples and find the best brush in each categories. We looked at performance, features and user reviews to determine the best brush in each category.
The Results
Best Professional Grade Toothbrushes That Costs $100 or More:
Philips Sonicare DiamondClean White Rechargeable Electric Toothbrush, HX9332
Suggested Retail Price: $219.99
There are four main things that set the Philips Sonicare DiamondClean White
Rechargeable Electric Toothbrush apart from the competition:
- Scientific Support. The model is backed up by numerous clinical trials that show it begins to improve gum health in just 2 weeks and provides double the whitening benefits of a standard toothbrush when used twice daily with the 2-minute smart timer and quadrant pacer as a guide for when to move to each section of the mouth.
- Versatility. With this toothbrush’s five different modes of operation, there is a setting that’s right for everyone’s brushing needs.
- Style. Many electric toothbrushes have bulky bases that detract from the appearance of a bathroom. The charging base for this model looks like an elegant crystal shot glass.
- Portability. Most rechargeable electric toothbrushes aren’t practical for frequent travelers, but Phillips has found a way to change that. This model comes with a toothbrush case that doubles as a USB charger, making it ready for use on the go.
Best High End Rechargeable Toothbrushes That Costs Between $25 and $100:
Oral-B Deep Sweep 1000 Electric Rechargeable Power Toothbrush
Suggested Retail Price: $99.99
The Oral-B Deep Sweep 1000 Electric Rechargeable Power Toothbrush is on the higher end of the pricing scale for this category, but it has some key features that make it the best bet:
- Performance. Tests show that this toothbrush outperforms others in its price range by removing as much as 50% more plaque than other models.
- Easy Replacements. Studies show that many people don’t know when to throw their toothbrush heads away. This model eliminates the guesswork with bristles that fade over time. When they reach the halfway point, it’s time for a replacement.
- Long Battery Life. When used twice daily for 2 minutes at a time, this model only requires charging about once every 7 days, a longer time frame than what you get with most competitors.
- Safety. One of the dangers of using an electric toothbrush is brushing too hard. This model has a visual pressure sensor that lets you know when to ease up.
Best Bargain Disposable Toothbrushes That Cost Less Than $25:
Oral-B Pulsar Battery Soft Bristle Regular Head Toothbrush
Suggested Retail Price: $5.99
If you’re looking for an affordable use-it-and-then-pitch-it alternative to a manual toothbrush, the Oral-B Pulsar Battery Soft Bristle Regular Head Toothbrush is a solid choice. Key features include:
- Vibration Function. Most bristles on toothbrushes in this category rotate, but this model vibrates more like a sonic brush to break up plaque.
- Ideal Lifespan. This battery in this disposable toothbrush is designed to die right around the time experts recommend that you replace your toothbrush–about once every 2 to 3 months.
- Large Handle. Most models in this price range have skinnier handles that are harder to grip. This one feels more like a pricier electric model.