What To Look For
Choose features including UV cleaning and timers. Choose a unit with rotating-oscillating bristles and a recharging base, otherwise you will need to buy replacement batteries each time they wear out. The length of time the unit stays charged also matters if you travel frequently. Most high-end models stay charged long enough that you could take the brush when traveling, without having to take the charging base. You may also want to purchase a unit with multiple settings such as a setting for gentle cleansing or gum massage.
Common Pitfalls
Consider the size of the toothbrush head. If you buy a brush head that is larger, it may be more difficult to brush the hard-to-reach areas of your mouth. Check the return policy on the toothbrush, because if the brush head or motion is not comfortable, you may want to exchange it. Because brush heads need to be replaced every three months, look at the cost and availability of replacement heads, which may be steep.
Where To Buy
Electric toothbrushes are sold online, in department stores, in drug stores and in retail stores such as Target and Wal-Mart. For the best price and a decent selection, Wal-Mart is your best bet.
Cost
Electric toothbrushes can cost as little as $10 to as much as $140. Two electric toothbrushes stand out among consumers and in clinical studies published in 2007 in the Journal of Clinical Dentistry; the Oral-B Professional Care Smart Series 4000 and the Sonicare FlexCare. The Sonicare Flexicare retails between $120 to $160 and the Oral-B Professional Care Smart Series 4000 from $80 to $130 as of August 2010.
Comparison Shopping
Less expensive and more basic electric toothbrushes can be purchased where manual toothbrushes are sold. Consumer Reports notes that the more expensive models are typically more effective at removing plaque. Basic units typically have one speed. Consumer Reports does give the SpinBrush Pro Clean Sonic from Arm & Hammer a rating of 62 out of a possible 100 points. The unit cost about $10 as of August 2010.
Accessories
If you travel frequently, get a unit that has a travel case.
Insider Tips
If you want your entire family to use an electric toothbrush, it is not necessary to buy more than one base. Instead, buy each member of your family her own brush head and switch the head out for each user.
References
- ConsumerSearch: Electric Toothbrushes: Reviews
- PubMed.gov: Clinical Evaluations of Plaque Removal Efficacy: An Advanced Rotating-oscillating Power Toothbrush Versus a Sonic Toothbrush
- ConsumerReports.org: Electric Toothbrush Ratings, March 2010
