Oral Irrigation and Electric Toothbrushes

Oral B Electric Toothbrush Heads-Which One Is A Bad Choice?

Oral B Electric toothbrush heads

Oh my goodness! Who knew there were so many choices? You have worn out the head on your Oral B electric toothbrush. It is time to buy a new one. Do you even know what to look for? Oral B electric toothbrush heads are highlighted in this discussion because Oral B is the most popular brand of electric toothbrushes sold today. This article discusses your options, features of each and which one is a bad choice.

As a dental hygienist, I am often asked during a teeth cleaning, “Which Oral B electric toothbrush head should I use?” There are several choices you have. You also have many choices when it comes to which electric toothbrush to use. You can refer to a related article comparing the different types of electric toothbrushes available today.

Why Should You Choose Oral B?Oral B Electric Toothbrush Heads

According to a study from the Oral Health Foundation, “Scientists found that people who use an electric toothbrush have healthier gums, less tooth decay and also keep their teeth for longer, compared with those who use a manual toothbrush.”

Oral B is the leader in the industry when it comes to oral health care. The round brush heads are inspired by dentists and are designed with end-rounded bristles for the highest quality clean that is gentle to your gums.

By syncing your Oral B toothbrush to the Oral B app, you can take charge of your oral health. The app tracks your performance during each session and alerts you to how you can improve your brushing.

Except for the latest Oral B IO series, all Oral B brush heads can be used no matter which model of brush you have. The IO series that was just launched has its own two heads that can only fit on IO models. Learn more about the benefits of the Oral B IO toothbrush in an 8-week randomized controlled study comparing this electric toothbrush to a manual brush. If you have any of the other Oral B models, you will be able to use any of the Oral B replacement brush heads interchangeably.

All Oral B electric toothbrushes include models: Oral B Vitality, 500/1000/1500/3000/5000/6000, Pro 7000, Genius 8000, Genius 9600, Genius X and Genius X Luxe. From older models to the newest models (except for Oral B IO series) you will have no problem switching between Oral B replacement heads depending on your needs.

Oral B Electric Toothbrush Heads: Which One Do You Need?

CrossAction

The most popular Oral B replacement head is the CrossAction. It includes Oral B’s most advanced technology that removes 100% more plaque than a manual brush. Its superior bristles are engineered and perfectly angled for the highest level of clean. The new CrossAction brush head is equipped with technology that prevents bacterial growth. This inhibits microbial growth that can affect the bristles. The small round brush head is highly recommended by dental professionals and is ideal for optimal plaque removal.

Gum Care

If you have receding gums or prefer to use an extra soft toothbrush, the Gum Care Oral B replacement head is for you. It features very soft tapered bristles that are ultra thin. This provides a flexible bristle that is ideal for cleaning under the gumline. The Gum Care brush head is ideal for people with teeth that are sensitive to hot and cold. It also provides a superior clean around crowns, bridges and other dental work.

 

Sensitive Gum Care

This replacement head for Oral B electric toothbrushes is designed for those who have inflamed or sensitive gums. The bristles are extra soft and very flexible. If you feel your gums are bothered by other brush heads that are too stiff, the Sensitve Gum Care will provide you with a superior clean without the irritation to your tender gums.

 

 

Precision Clean

The Oral B Precision Clean electric toothbrush replacement head will remove up to 400% more plaque along your teeth and gums compared to a regular manual toothbrush. It comes with indicator bristles to alert you when to change your brush head and like all Oral B replacement heads, is interchangeable among all brushes (except the Oral B IO brush). The Precision Clean brush heads provide you with close to 50,000 brush strokes per minute compared with the mere 500-600 brush strokes per minute your manual toothbrush provides.

Floss Action

Floss Action replacement heads for Oral B electric toothbrushes will provide a special clean meant to remove more plaque and debris from the spaces between your teeth. The Floss Action brush head is not meant to replace flossing which is an important component to overall oral health. It comes equipped with MicroPulse bristles designed to reach deep in between your teeth providing a floss-like clean.

 

3D White

The 3D White replacement head for Oral B electric toothbrushes is designed to help you achieve a whiter, brighter smile. It is designed with a special cup in the head that gently polishes away surface stains. The 3D White head can provide whiter teeth within 2 weeks of use by removing surface stains. Surface stains can also be removed with whitening toothpastes but you need to use these products with caution. Often, whitening toothpastes are too abrasive and can cause damage to the enamel resulting in sensitivity. You have other options when it comes to whitening your teeth that may give you greater results. If you are looking to whiten your teeth by lightening the shade of the enamel, you will want to try one of these options.

Which Replacement Head Is a Bad Choice?

When buying a replacement head for your Oral B electric toothbrush, the only bad choice you can make is buying a counterfeit brush head. This would be a no-name or knock-off model claiming to be a replacement for your Oral B head.

You want to make sure you are buying an authentic Oral B replacement head for many reasons. The most important reason is due to brush speed. One of the best ways to spot a counterfeit Oral B brush head is the way it fits your brush handle. When a fake brush head is used, the rotary motion is reduced when pressure is applied to the tooth. This will significantly slow down the amount of brush strokes being delivered and alter the way the brush cleans.

Another reason to purchase an authentic Oral B brush head is to be sure your brush head is soft enough. Dental professionals and the American Dental Association (ADA) recommend only soft bristles. Soft bristles will ensure a thorough cleaning without causing damage to your teeth and gums. Fake brush heads will be too stiff and hard and may cause damage.

Look for a product displaying the ADA seal of approval. This takes the guesswork out of buying a product that you know will be safe and effective. Purchasing a genuine Oral B brush head versus a knock-off version will provide you with a built-in indicator to alert you when your brush head needs replacing. This indicator is in the bristles of an authentic Oral B brush head but does not exist in a knock-off version. The bristles will fade in color halfway down the brush when you need to replace your brush head.

The Takeaway

Take your time deciding which Oral B replacement head you should choose. Depending on your needs, there is a perfect option for you. It will be in your best interest to be sure you purchase an authentic Oral B replacement head. You may save a little money by purchasing an off brand or knock-off. However, it is definitely worth it to spend a little extra and be sure you are getting a superior product that will not damage your teeth or gums. As a dental hygienist, I would be happy to help you answer any questions or concerns you may have. Please leave your comments below.

Medical Disclaimer:
The information that I provide on my website is not intended to take the place of medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Care and investigation should always be sought from an appropriate health care provider before using any new or recommended products. I have created this site as a way to share information and experiences.

8 comments

  1. DashDNations

    I have a small mouth, and small teeth even for an adult. I always have to find toothbrushes that fit. Some of them simply stretch my cheeks out and don’t reach all my teeth. This has a lot of great information, and details that I wouldn’t have thought to look for, I usually just give up and go with my go to brush. Thanks.

    1. Michelle Mussehl, RDH

      DashDNations,

      Most dental professionals can agree on one thing- Oral B toothbrushes are most recommended for their small round heads. The size and shape of this brush is ideal for those with a small mouth as well as those with a larger mouth. The teeth in the mouth have lots of corners and tight spaces and the small round head is best suited for all areas.

      Michelle

  2. Ann

    Hi! This has been a nice read.

    Yes, I agree with you that we should be careful and purchase original Oral B replacement heads. I have had bad experiences purchasing an off brand/knock-off.

    Thank you for also pointing out the different options. I’ll have to ask my dentist which option suits me most.

    Very helpful post! Thanks!

    1. Michelle Mussehl, RDH

      Ann, 

      Checking with your dental professional first is a great idea. Your dental hygienist in particular will be familiar with your needs and which brush would best suit you. It will be apparent where you need to improve your home care. This is evidenced by bleeding, inflammation or tartar build up. It will also be apparent upon examination if your brushing is too aggressive and causing recession of your gumline. Oral B has a variety of brush heads to fit each individual need. Thank you for your comments!

      Michelle

  3. Kokontala

    Hi Michelle, I’ve just gone through your article on oral B electric toothbrush heads. I find it very informative and helpful too. I must agree with you that Oral B is the leader in the industry when it comes to oral health care. I’ve been using it for the past year and the results are great. Thank you for sharing this amazing piece of writing with us, I will be sharing it further too to spread the word.

    1. Michelle Mussehl, RDH

      Kokontaia,

      Great news! I am glad you have experienced this first hand. I have seen countless patients with great results too. I recommend the Oral B toothbrush and replacement heads to all my patients who need to improve their brushing and also to many who are brushing too hard. Brushing with too much force can be just as problematic as not brushing adequately. Oral B electric toothbrushes are equipped with a built-in sensor to alert you when you are using too much pressure. The soft compatible brush heads are effective and gentle to prevent damage to your teeth and gums.

      Michelle

  4. Aly

    This is informative and helpful when shopping for an Oral B electric toothbrush head. I had no idea there were so many options, but I really think the 3D whitening option with polishing sounds very innovative! 

    Thanks for the heads up to avoid counterfeits!! I don’t want to waste time or money on a product that won’t be effective, so I’ll be sure to purchase from a legit source.

    1. Michelle Mussehl, RDH

      Aly,

      There are many companies today that are selling brush heads that are “compatible” with the Oral B electric toothbrush. When you purchase one of these, you may save a little bit of money up front but will spend more in the long run. The reason for this is the fact that you will need to replace a knock off version much sooner than the genuine Oral B brush head. Also, you need to keep in mind that an authentic Oral B toothbrush head has the ADA seal of acceptance assuring you the product is both safe and effective.

      Thanks for your comments,

      Michelle

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