There are plenty of reasons why you might want to switch from a regular toothbrush to an electric toothbrush. This can range from getting a deeper clean (thanks to the pulsing or spinning action of the brush heads) to utilizing the techy features offered on electric options that just aren’t available with their manual counterparts.
For instance, some electric toothbrushes offer built-in sensors and timers to ensure proper brushing technique while others can be synced with an app to help track and improve your overall oral health habits—even if it’s just making sure you’re hitting all the right spots. And while prices and features run the gamut, we’ve aimed to include options for different budgets and needs, including one brush that’s particularly great for kids. Read on for our list of the best electric toothbrushes.
— Best Overall: Philips Sonicare ExpertClean 7700 Rechargeable Electric Toothbrush
— Best Combo: Waterpik Complete Care 9.0 Sonic Electric Toothbrush with Water Flosser
— Best Splurge: Oral-B iO Series 9 Electric Toothbrush
— Best for Kids: Brusheez Kids Electric Toothbrush Set
— Best Value: Aquasonic Black Series Ultra Whitening Toothbrush
How We Picked the Best Electric Toothbrushes
Do a quick scan and you’ll see that there are a lot of different electric toothbrushes on the market. These can range from simple versions with replaceable batteries and non-removable brush heads to much more elaborate models with rechargeable batteries, multiple modes, and tech features like tracking apps and customization options. For this list, we looked at over 20 different toothbrushes, with a greater focus on those that offered a bit more in the way of features.
We were sure to look at the number of modes offered—whether that’s whitening, sensitive, or gum health—since it’s smart to have a variety of options to meet any changing needs. We also looked at whether or not the brushes offered different intensities. We noted the number of brush heads the model comes with, how the toothbrush is charged, how long that charge lasts, and whether the brush is easy to travel with. We also looked at some of the more advanced features. Since the price points can vary greatly, we also made sure to include a few different options, as well as those aimed at kids or others with specific needs.
The Best Electric Toothbrushes: Reviews & Recommendations
Best Overall: Philips Sonicare ExpertClean 7700 Rechargeable Electric Toothbrush
Why It Made the Cut: This Philips Sonicare model covers offers all the practical necessities coupled with some tech-y features (tracking app, internal intensity sensor) to cover all your bases.
Specs:
— Rechargeable battery
— Two brush heads
— Different modes and intensities
Pros:
— Waterproof
— Four modes
— Offers three different intensity levels
— Comes with a charging travel case
Cons:
— Only one replacement brush head included
Just like Oral-B, Philips Sonicare offers lots of different electric toothbrush models and options. We ultimately liked this Expert Clean version for a number of reasons. To start, it offers a handful of technologically advanced features to help elevate your brushing experience without hitting the highest price point. For example, you’ll find an internal sensor to let you know if you’re applying the right amount of pressure as well as a progress report accessible through the app.
We also particularly like the fact that not only are there four different modes, but also three different intensities (high, medium, and low), which can be particularly important when you first start using an electric toothbrush. While we do wish there were more than just one two brush heads included for the price, each one is specifically made to help with either plaque or your gums. This model also comes with a charging travel case, and in general, the brush can hold its charge for upwards of two weeks.
Best Combo: Waterpik Complete Care 9.0 Sonic Electric Toothbrush with Water Flosser
Why It Made the Cut: This Waterpik model is an impressive option if you’re looking for both an electric toothbrush and a water flosser, with great features on each.
Specs:
— The unit itself is electric
— Includes a water flosser
— Two brush heads, plus five water flosser tips
Pros:
— Three modes (on the toothbrush)
— Don’t have to buy a separate water flosserIncludes timer and pacer
Cons:
— Takes up more space than just a toothbrush
Looking to revamp your oral hygiene? Along with an electric toothbrush, a water flosser—basically an alternative to string floss—can help further remove plaque and improve your oral health. Waterpik is one of the top water flosser brands out there, and this flosser, which includes a separate electric toothbrush, is a great choice.
As far as the toothbrush itself goes, this one offers many of the same features you’ll find in others on the market, including three different modes—clean, whiten, and massage—and a built-in timer with pacer that notifies you at 30-second intervals. Plus, this one comes with a travel case for the toothbrush. The water flosser offers five different tips (for example, orthodontic) and 10 different pressure settings. The reservoir holds about 22 ounces of water. The unit is electric, so it’s plugged directly into the wall, though the toothbrush charges when it’s placed in its dock.
Best Splurge: Oral-B iO Series 9 Electric Toothbrush
Why It Made the Cut: From techy features that let you track your brushing to a built-in timer and seven different modes (sensitive, whitening, etc.) to choose from, this Oral-B toothbrush hits all the marks.
Specs:
— Rechargeable battery
— Four brush heads
— Utilizes AI technology
Pros:
— Magnetic charger that powers the brush quickly
— Lots of personalized brushing technologyInternal sensor to indicate brushing strength
— Seven modes
Cons:
— Pricey
— Only works with specific Oral-B replacement heads
Oral-B offers a wide variety of electric toothbrushes—and there are definitely less expensive ones you can choose for your brushing experience. But we love so many of the advanced features here that if you’re ready to go all-out with your brushing routine, this Oral-B pick is the one to splurge on. Some of the most innovative of the features are decidedly tech-y.
For example, “3D teeth tracking” utilizes AI technology to guarantee you’re brushing as thoroughly as possible, while the “smart pressure sensor” lights up to let you know if you’re being too tough (or not tough enough) on your pearly whites. As far as the brushing experience itself, this version uses “micro-vibrating bristles.”
The toothbrush also hits a lot of other must-haves, with four brush heads and a charging travel case. Speaking of charging, it’ll be fully ready to go in about three hours, and features a sleek magnetic charger. Also cool? There are seven modes, including whitening, gum care, and sensitive. It’s especially great for those with very sensitive teeth, thanks to the “super sensitive” mode—one of the few toothbrushes we’ve seen that offer this option.
Best for Kids: Brusheez Kids Electric Toothbrush Set
Why It Made the Cut: With super cute designs that will go over well with younger kids, this Brusheez battery-powered toothbrush offers some fun, low-tech features.
Specs:
— Uses replaceable batteries
— Two brush heads
— Multiple character options
Pros:
— Kid-friendly designs
— Can be mounted on the wall
— Comes with cup and timer
Cons:
— Timer isn’t built in
— Batteries not included
If your kids are anything like mine, they’re notoriously fickle with toothbrushes: The toothbrushes have fallen into the toilet, somehow wound up in the car, and generally taken a lot of wear and tear. Which is why this battery-powered, vibrating toothbrush from Brusheez is a good option. Price-wise you’ll find both cheaper and more expensive alternatives, but with the features offered here—including a storage case, extra brush head, and timer—it’s a good, middle-of-the-road choice.
The storage case—complete with spots for a kid-sized cup for rinsing (it’s included), the timer, extra brush head, and the brush itself—is a particularly great feature for keeping everything together. Bonus: The whole thing can be mounted directly to the wall. Also great is the fact that this toothbrush is a bit more low-tech, with a chart where kids can check off if they’ve brushed both in the morning and at night (Extra sheets can be downloaded from the website). The designs, including a llama, unicorn, and more, will likely be particularly appealing to the preschool and early elementary school set.
Best Value: Aquasonic Black Series Ultra Whitening Toothbrush
Why It Made the Cut: This brush offers a must-have mix of impressive features (waterproof, long battery life), four brushing modes, ADA-accepted, and an inexpensive price point.
Specs:
— Wireless rechargeable battery
— 40,000 vibrations per minute
— Eight brush heads
Pros:
— WaterproofAmerican Dental Association (ADA) Council on Scientific Affairs approved
— Four modes
— Comes with a travel case
Cons:
— Only available in black
The Aquasonic Black Series Ultrasonic Whitening Toothbrush delivers on so many levels. And that starts with the affordable price point, which makes it a great choice, especially if you’re hesitant to invest in an electric toothbrush. The features here are pretty impressive, too. You’ll be able to choose from four different models, including whitening and softening (for sensitive teeth). To clean your teeth, the brush uses a cool “pulse and vibrate” technique, with over 40,000 vibrations per minute. Plus, the kit comes with eight DuPont replacement brushes, which are supposed to last you well over two years.
On the battery front, this one is rechargeable—and wireless—with one charge lasting upwards of a month. It also happens to be waterproof, so if you need to shower and brush your teeth you’re good to go. Add in the streamlined black look, the fact that it’s certified by the American Dental Association, and the included travel case, and there’s not much else you could ask for in a toothbrush.
Things to Consider Before Buying an Electric Toothbrush
As always, there are a number of things to keep in mind before you make your purchase:
Price: Electric toothbrushes can vary greatly when it comes to price point, with some models under $50 and others hitting above $200. As we’ve aimed to show on this list, there are good options out there for a variety of budgets.
Features: As you decide which toothbrush is best for you, consider not only what features are offered, but if and how you’ll use them. For instance, many models offer built-in timers (some with pacers, too), which can be great if you want to ensure you’re brushing for long enough. But if you’ve already got your brush-time down to a science, that might matter less. Other brushes offer multiple modes, but if you don’t have sensitive teeth or a desire for a whitening option, you might want to opt for something with fewer modes. Same on the flip side: If you’re looking to overhaul your brushing routine, tracking apps and customization options that offer a more in-depth look at your technique can really help.
Location: This is another important question to take into consideration—and can help make the decision between features easier. For example, if you want the option to brush in the shower, go with a waterproof version. If you do lots of traveling, there are options that come with their own cases—some of which are even chargeable.
Specific Needs: There are electric toothbrushes out there for all ages, including kids. The version for kids that we included here is great because it’s slightly more low-tech (no app, but there is an analog chart kids can use to track their brushing) and has an all-in-one storage space. Or, you might want to consider one that comes with a water flosser, like the Waterpik version on our list, so you don’t have to worry about buying two separate products.
FAQs
Q: How can you choose the best electric toothbrush?
There are lots of criteria to take into consideration when choosing the best electric toothbrush. Start by thinking about how you’ll use the toothbrush—are you looking for a no-frills version that simply gets the job done? Or are you hoping for something with a few more bells and whistles? Overall, the most versatile options are those that offer a few different modes, such as one for sensitive teeth and another to focus on the gums. Features like and built-in timers are nice, as is a rechargeable battery.
Q: Can kids use an electric toothbrush?
Kids can use an electric toothbrush. In fact, a 2020 review in The International Journal of Pediatric Dentistry found that, for kids, powered toothbrushes were better at removing plaque than manual ones. There are electric toothbrushes made specifically for kids, including the one from Brusheez featured on this list. Kids’ electric toothbrushes vary from simple models to those that offer some of the same features as adult versions. We like the option included here for its kid-friendly design, timer, and replaceable brush head.
Q: Are electric toothbrushes good for travel?
While it might seem easier to pack a manual toothbrush in your suitcase or overnight bag, electric toothbrushes are just as easy to travel with. Best of all, a few of the brushes on this list offer travel-ready features, including charging and travel cases. Some, like the Aquasonic, also have long-lasting batteries which makes it road-trip friendly.
Final Thoughts on the Best Electric Toothbrushes
An electric toothbrush can be a great alternative to your manual one, and there are many different ones out there to choose from, depending on what you’re looking for. By considering some of the must-have features—number of modes, replacement brushes, and more—you can determine which is best for you and can help make your brushing routine even better.
This post was created by a non-news editorial team at Recurrent Media, Futurism’s owner. Futurism may receive a portion of sales on products linked within this post.
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