With names like Elite and Triumph (by Sonicare) and Series 8000 and 400 (Oral B), a shopping trip for an electric toothbrush could remind you of a trip to a car dealer. And the similarities don't end with the names. The options, both computerized and manual, are what set one electric toothbrush apart from another. That, and the price. Just as if you were shopping for a car, having some idea of the options you want before pulling out your wallet will result in a happier purchase all-around.
What to Look for
Although a recent Consumer Reports test showed that, used properly, a $2 or $4 toothbrush will do the job just as well as an electric toothbrush, it's all about the technique. If you're not brushing long enough, you're brushing too hard or you're missing spots, the bare-bones brush may not be the best choice. And here's the boggle in buying an electric toothbrush: the bells and whistles. Oral-B lines rate well because they move every way imaginable, from in-out to oscillating to side-to-side, so you won't miss a spot. The 7000 series includes a timer to make sure you're brushing for the recommended two minutes. Move up to the 8000 series, and you'll get five attachments, including a polisher and tongue refresher. Step up to the 9000s (and a higher price), which contains a monitor that signals if you're brushing too hard and indicates when it's time to change brush heads. Sonicare brands carry all those car-model names, and according to surveys from iVillage and The Wall Street Journal, they can match Oral-B trick for trick.
Popular non-rechargeable, battery-powered brushes represent less upfront investment. Several models retail for less than $10 and are made by the dental care heavy hitters like Crest, Oral-B and Colgate. A Good Housekeeping panel and a three-member team of dentists gave them good marks for the money. All take AA batteries, which when tested, lasted about a month. Do the math before deciding on this type because you may fritter away your cost savings on batteries.
Common Pitfalls
Besides considering the price of batteries for the cheaper, non-rechargeable types, you should look at the prices of the models' replacement heads. No matter what type of electric toothbrush you choose, you'll be looking to replace these heads every three or four months, so you want an affordable replacement and one that is not carried by only one store you frequent (though ordering online is an option). Another caveat: If you're a newcomer to electric toothbrushes, it may take you a week or two to get accustomed to the vibration.
