Oral-B: from a gum specialist's toothbrush to the iO, and which brush to choose

With a name like Clean Smile Home, it's no surprise that toothbrushes matter to us. So this guide is a bit closer to home than the others.

Oral-B is the biggest name in electric toothbrushes, and it has a longer history than most people realise. It began with a dentist in California in 1950, long before electric toothbrushes were common, and its first product was a manual brush designed to be gentle on gums. That same idea, cleaning well without damaging your gums, runs right through to the pressure sensors on the iO brushes we sell today.

We sell eight Oral-B products: four versions of the iO2, the iO3, the Vitality Pro, and two packs of replacement brush heads. This guide covers Oral-B's history, how its brushes work, a clear comparison of every model we sell, the brush head question that confuses almost everyone, how to brush properly according to UK dental advice, travel and charging tips, care, and a long FAQ.

One note before we start: we're a shop, not a dental practice. Everything here is general information. For advice about your own teeth and gums, talk to your dentist or hygienist.

The short version

• Oral-B was founded in California in 1950 by Dr Robert Hutson, a periodontist (a gum specialist). Today it's owned by Procter & Gamble.
• Oral-B's electric brushes use small round heads that rotate back and forth. The newer iO range adds micro-vibrations and a redesigned motor.
• For the best value starter brush, buy the Oral-B Vitality Pro.
• For the iO experience at an affordable price, buy the Oral-B iO2. For two people, the iO2 Duo is better value.
• For a colour-coded pressure sensor (green for right, red for too hard) and a Whitening mode, buy the Oral-B iO3.
• iO brushes only take iO heads. Vitality and other older Oral-B brushes only take the classic round heads. They are not interchangeable.
• Change your brush head about every three months, or sooner if the bristles look worn.

Where Oral-B came from

A gum specialist's toothbrush

In the 1940s, Dr Robert W. Hutson ran a periodontal practice in San Jose, California. Periodontists specialise in gums, and Hutson saw the damage hard, stiff toothbrush bristles could do. In 1949 he found that thin nylon filaments with rounded ends were gentle on gums but still cleaned teeth well.

He filed a design patent for the "Hutson toothbrush" on 13 January 1950, and the brand launched in California that year. The first product was called the Oral-B 60, named after its 60 tufts of bristles. According to the company, the "B" stands for "brush". In 1958, Hutson was granted a further patent for a brush with fine, soft, flat-ended nylon bristles.

The idea caught on with dental professionals, who started recommending the brush. That's a pattern that continues today: Oral-B has always leaned on its relationship with dentists.

Gillette, Braun and the move to electric

Hutson sold the business in the 1960s. In 1984, the Gillette group bought Oral-B. Gillette also owned Braun, the German electrical company, and Braun began putting the Oral-B name on its electric toothbrushes. That combination of Braun's motors and Oral-B's dental expertise is the foundation of every Oral-B electric toothbrush since.

Small inventions you've probably used

Oral-B introduced a few ideas that are now so normal we don't think about them:

• Indicator bristles (1991): coloured bristles that fade as the brush wears, telling you when to replace it. The idea won an Edison Award.
• Angled bristles (1998): the CrossAction brush introduced bristles set at an angle to reach between teeth. CrossAction heads are still made for Oral-B electric brushes today.

Procter & Gamble and the iO

In 2005, Procter & Gamble bought Gillette, bringing Oral-B into the same company as Crest toothpaste. Then in June 2020, Oral-B revealed the iO, its biggest redesign in years. The iO uses a magnetic drive system, combining Oral-B's familiar oscillating-rotating movement with micro-vibrations, plus a smart pressure sensor that shows green when your pressure is right and red when you're pressing too hard. Higher iO models add features like an interactive display and app-based tracking of where you've brushed.

Oral-B at a glance: a short timeline

• 1949: Dr Robert Hutson finds that thin, round-ended nylon bristles are gentle on gums.
• 1950: the design patent is filed and Oral-B launches in California with the Oral-B 60.
• 1958: Hutson patents a soft, flat-ended bristle brush.
• 1984: Gillette buys Oral-B, and Braun starts using the Oral-B name on electric toothbrushes.
• 1991: indicator bristles that fade with wear.
• 1998: CrossAction angled bristles.
• 2005: Procter & Gamble buys Gillette, and Oral-B joins P&G.
• 2020: the iO range is revealed, with a magnetic drive and smart pressure sensor.

How Oral-B brushes work

Oscillating-rotating

Most Oral-B electric brushes use a small, round brush head that rotates back and forth very quickly. The idea is that the head cups each tooth, so you guide it slowly from tooth to tooth rather than scrubbing back and forth like a manual brush.

That's different from "sonic" toothbrushes from other brands, which use an oval head that vibrates side to side at high speed, more like a manual brush shape. Both types can clean well. People tend to have a strong preference once they've tried both.

What the iO adds

The iO range uses a redesigned magnetic drive. Oral-B says this directs energy to the bristle tips and combines rotation with micro-vibrations for a gentle clean, including along the gumline. In everyday use, most people notice that iO brushes feel smoother and quieter than older Oral-B models.

The iO also has its own brush heads with a different fitting. That's why iO heads and classic heads don't swap (more on that below).

Pressure sensors: why they matter

Brushing too hard is one of the most common mistakes people make, with any toothbrush. It can wear enamel and irritate or push back gums over time. A pressure sensor warns you when you press too hard. It's one of the most useful features an electric toothbrush can have, especially if you're a heavy-handed brusher.

• The iO2 has a pressure sensor that lights up when you're pressing too hard.
• The iO3 has a colour-coded sensor: green when the pressure is right, red when it's too much. Positive feedback (green) is surprisingly helpful in learning the right touch.
• The Vitality Pro doesn't have a pressure sensor. If you know you brush hard, choose an iO.

Timers and pacing

All the Oral-B brushes we sell have a two-minute timer that prompts you every 30 seconds to move to the next area of your mouth. Divide your mouth into four quarters (top left, top right, bottom left, bottom right) and move on at each prompt. It's a simple way to make sure you don't spend all your time on the front teeth.

The Oral-B range at Clean Smile Home

Oral-B Vitality Pro Electric Toothbrush with 2 Brush Heads

The Vitality Pro is a straightforward, great-value electric toothbrush.

• Three brushing modes: Daily Clean, Sensitive and Sensitive Plus.
• A two-minute timer with a prompt every 30 seconds.
• A classic Oral-B round brush head that rotates back and forth.
• A rechargeable handle with a charging stand.
• Two brush heads in the box, so you have a spare from day one.
• Uses classic round heads such as Precision Clean and CrossAction. Not iO heads.

Who it's for: first-time electric brush users, anyone on a budget, children old enough for an adult brush (check the age guidance on the pack), and as a spare for a holiday home or a guest bathroom.

Worth knowing: it has no pressure sensor, so be gentle. Let the brush do the work.

Oral-B iO2 Electric Toothbrush with Travel Case

The iO2 is the simplest way into the iO range.

• Three brushing modes: Daily Clean, Sensitive and Super Sensitive.
• A pressure sensor that lights up when you're pressing too hard.
• A two-minute timer with a prompt every 30 seconds.
• A round Oral-B iO brush head.
• Up to four weeks of brushing from a full charge, according to Oral-B.
• In the box: the iO2 handle, one Gentle Care brush head, a travel case, a travel refill holder and a charger.

Who it's for: anyone who wants the smoother iO feel and a pressure sensor without paying for features they won't use. The Gentle Care head and Super Sensitive mode suit people with sensitive teeth or gums.

Oral-B iO2 with Ultimate Clean Head and Travel Case, Night Black

The iO2 in Night Black with Ultimate Clean head is the same brush as above, in black, supplied with an Ultimate Clean head instead of Gentle Care.

Who it's for: anyone who prefers the Ultimate Clean head's twisted and angled bristles, and anyone who likes a black handle.

Oral-B iO2 with Travel Case and 3D White Toothpaste, Night Black

The iO2 starter set adds a tube of Oral-B 3D White Luxe Perfection toothpaste, so you have everything from the first brush. It comes with a Gentle Care head and a travel case.

Who it's for: a ready-to-go gift, or anyone who'd like to start with a matching toothpaste.

Oral-B iO2 Duo Electric Toothbrushes, Night Black and Calm Pink

The iO2 Duo puts two iO2 handles in one box, one in Night Black and one in Calm Pink, with two Gentle Care heads, one travel case, a travel refill holder and one charger.

Who it's for: couples and housemates who each want their own handle. The different colours mean no mix-ups. It's better value than buying two separately.

Worth knowing: there's one charger in the box. Most couples just take turns, as a full charge lasts for weeks.

Oral-B iO3 Electric Toothbrush with Travel Case

The iO3 adds a colour-coded pressure sensor and a Whitening mode.

• Three brushing modes: Daily Clean, Sensitive and Whitening.
• A pressure sensor light that shows green when pressure is right and red when you're pressing too hard.
• A two-minute timer with a prompt every 30 seconds.
• A round Oral-B iO brush head.
• In the box: the iO3 handle, one Ultimate Clean head, a travel case, a refill holder, a charger pouch and a charger.

Who it's for: heavy-handed brushers who'd benefit from seeing green as well as red, coffee and tea drinkers interested in a Whitening mode, and frequent travellers who'll use the charger pouch.

Worth knowing: a Whitening mode is designed to help with surface stains. It doesn't change the natural colour of your teeth the way a dentist's whitening treatment can.

Oral-B iO Ultimate Clean Replacement Brush Heads, Black

Genuine iO Ultimate Clean heads in black, in packs of four or eight. They have twisted and angled bristles designed to reach around each tooth. They fit iO handles only, including the iO2 and iO3. They don't fit Vitality, Pro, Smart or Genius handles.

Oral-B Pro Precision Clean Replacement Brush Heads, White, 12 Pack

A bulk pack of 12 Pro Precision Clean heads with X-shaped and angled bristles. At one head every three months, that's roughly three years of refills for one person. They fit classic Oral-B rotating handles such as Vitality, Pro, Smart and Genius. They don't fit iO or Pulsonic handles.

Every Oral-B brush we sell, compared

	Vitality Pro	iO2	iO3
Brushing modes	Daily Clean, Sensitive, Sensitive Plus	Daily Clean, Sensitive, Super Sensitive	Daily Clean, Sensitive, Whitening
Pressure sensor	No	Yes, lights when too hard	Yes, green for right, red for too hard
Two-minute timer with 30-second prompts	Yes	Yes	Yes
Brush head type	Classic round	iO	iO
Travel case	No	Yes	Yes, plus charger pouch
Best for	Budget, first electric brush	Most people	Heavy brushers, travellers

Which Oral-B should you buy?

"I've never had an electric toothbrush"

Start with the Vitality Pro if budget matters most, or the iO2 if you'd like the pressure sensor and the smoother iO feel. If you think you might brush hard, go iO2.

"My gums bleed or my teeth are sensitive"

See your dentist first, as bleeding gums can be a sign of gum disease that needs checking. For brushing, the iO2 with its Gentle Care head and Super Sensitive mode is a gentle choice, and its pressure sensor helps stop you pressing too hard.

"I always brush too hard"

The iO3. The green light shows you what the right pressure feels like, not just when you've got it wrong.

"We need two"

The iO2 Duo. Two handles in different colours, one box, better value.

"It's a gift"

The iO2 starter set with toothpaste is ready to use out of the box.

The brush head question

This is the most common question we get, so here's the simplest possible answer.

Your handle	Heads that fit	Heads that don't fit
iO2, iO3 or any iO	iO heads, like iO Ultimate Clean	Classic round heads (Precision Clean, CrossAction, etc.)
Vitality, Pro, Smart, Genius	Classic round heads, like Pro Precision Clean	iO heads

If you're not sure which handle you have, look at the name printed on it. If it says iO, you need iO heads. Anything else from Oral-B with a round, rotating head, you need classic heads.

How often should you change the head?

Dentists generally recommend changing your brush head about every three months, or sooner if the bristles look splayed or worn. Change it after you've had a cold or a mouth infection too, if you'd like a fresh start. Worn bristles don't clean as well, however good the handle is.

A tip: when you open a new head, note the date somewhere you'll see it, like the calendar on your phone. Three months goes faster than you'd think.

Genuine heads versus unbranded

You'll see cheap unbranded heads online that claim to fit Oral-B handles. Some are fine, but quality varies a lot: bristles can be harsher, ends may not be rounded, and the fitting can be loose. We only sell genuine Oral-B heads for Oral-B handles. Remember, rounded, gentle bristles were the whole reason Oral-B was founded.

How to brush properly

The NHS gives clear, simple guidance on looking after your teeth. Here's a summary of the main points, plus how to apply them with an Oral-B electric brush.

What the NHS recommends

• Brush your teeth twice a day, for about two minutes. One of those times should be last thing at night.
• Use a fluoride toothpaste. For most adults, that means a toothpaste with 1,350 to 1,500 ppm fluoride. Check the label.
• Spit out after brushing, but don't rinse with water. Rinsing washes away the fluoride.
• Clean between your teeth, with interdental brushes or floss.
• Cut down on sugary foods and drinks, especially between meals.
• Visit your dentist regularly, as often as they recommend.

Using an Oral-B electric toothbrush, step by step

1. Put a pea-sized amount of toothpaste on the head. Put the brush in your mouth before switching it on, to avoid splatter.
2. Start with one quarter of your mouth. Hold the head at a slight angle towards the gumline.
3. Guide it slowly from tooth to tooth. Let the round head cup each tooth for a couple of seconds. Don't scrub. The brush does the movement.
4. Clean the outer surface, inner surface and chewing surface of each tooth.
5. Move to the next quarter when the timer prompts you every 30 seconds.
6. Watch the pressure light. If it lights red, ease off.
7. Spit, don't rinse.
8. Rinse the brush head under the tap and stand the brush upright to dry.

Common brushing mistakes

• Pressing too hard. The pressure sensor will tell you.
• Moving too fast. Electric brushes work best when moved slowly.
• Skipping the inside surfaces, especially behind the bottom front teeth, where tartar builds up.
• Brushing straight after acidic food or drink. Some dentists advise waiting a while after acidic foods like citrus fruit or fizzy drinks, as enamel is temporarily softened. Ask your dentist for advice that suits you.
• Rinsing with water after brushing.

The brushing modes, explained

Every Oral-B brush we sell has three modes. Here's what each one is for.

• Daily Clean: the standard mode. Most people use it most of the time.
• Sensitive: a gentler setting for sensitive teeth or gums, or for the first week or two while you get used to an electric brush.
• Super Sensitive (iO2) or Sensitive Plus (Vitality Pro): gentler still. Useful if your gums are tender, or after dental work if your dentist says it's okay to brush the area.
• Whitening (iO3): designed to help polish away surface stains from tea, coffee and red wine. Many people use it a few times a week rather than every day.

If you're new to electric toothbrushes, the first few days can feel ticklish. Starting on a sensitive mode for a week and then switching to Daily Clean helps.

Cleaning between your teeth

A toothbrush cleans the front, back and chewing surfaces of your teeth, but it can't reach properly between them. That's where plaque often builds up, and where gum problems and decay often start. The NHS recommends cleaning between your teeth with interdental brushes or floss.

Interdental brushes

Small brushes on a handle that slide between your teeth. They come in different sizes, and you may need more than one size for different gaps. Your dentist or hygienist can tell you which sizes suit you. Push the brush gently through each gap, move it back and forth a few times, and never force it.

Floss and tape

Useful where gaps are very tight. Curve the floss around each tooth in a C shape and slide it gently below the gumline, then up. Don't snap it down onto your gums.

When to do it

Once a day is plenty for most people. Many find it easiest just before brushing at night.

Gums: what to look out for

Healthy gums are usually pink and firm, and they don't bleed when you brush. The NHS says bleeding gums can be a sign of gum disease, which is very common. Other signs include red or swollen gums, bad breath and gums that seem to be shrinking back from your teeth.

If you notice any of these, book a check-up with your dentist. Gum disease is often treatable when it's caught early, and good daily brushing and cleaning between teeth play a big part.

Don't stop brushing an area just because it bleeds. That's a common reaction, but it tends to make things worse. Brush gently, use a sensitive mode if it helps, and see your dentist.

What an Oral-B brush costs over time

The handle is a one-off cost. The ongoing cost is brush heads, at about four a year per person if you change every three months.

Buying heads in bulk brings the cost per head down. The 12-pack of Pro Precision Clean heads covers about three years for one person with a classic handle like the Vitality Pro. For iO handles, the iO Ultimate Clean heads come in packs of four or eight.

When comparing brushes, think about the total cost over two or three years, including heads, not just the price of the handle.

Electric toothbrushes for families

• Give each person their own brush head, clearly marked. Coloured rings or different coloured handles help.
• Let each head dry in the open air. A shared cup where heads touch isn't ideal.
• Use the right toothpaste for each age. The NHS gives specific guidance on fluoride levels and amounts for children of different ages.
• Supervise children's brushing. Many children need help to brush properly until they're about seven.
• Make the timer a game. Two minutes feels long to a child; the 30-second prompts help break it up.

Charging, travel and that 2-pin plug

Why is the plug different?

Oral-B chargers in the UK come with a 2-pin bathroom shaver plug, not a standard 3-pin plug. That's because UK wiring rules are strict about electrics in bathrooms, and shaver sockets are the type designed for bathrooms. If you want to charge your brush from a standard socket in a bedroom or kitchen, you need a 2-pin to 3-pin shaver adaptor. They're cheap and widely available, but not included in the box.

Battery life

Oral-B says the iO2 gives up to four weeks of brushing from a full charge. Battery life varies with how long and how often you brush, and the mode you use. You don't need to leave the brush on the charger all the time.

Travelling with your brush

• The iO2 and iO3 come with travel cases. Use them. They protect the head and keep the brush clean in your bag.
• For short trips, a full charge will usually last, so you can leave the charger at home.
• For longer trips abroad, take the charger. Check the voltage information on the charger and the plug type for the country you're visiting.
• Electric toothbrushes are usually fine in hand luggage. Rules can vary by airline and airport, so check before you fly.
• Let the head dry before packing it, to stop it smelling.

Looking after your Oral-B brush

• Rinse the head under running water after every brush.
• Take the head off once a week and rinse the top of the handle and the inside of the head, where toothpaste builds up.
• Wipe the handle with a damp cloth. Don't put it in the dishwasher.
• Store it upright so the head can dry. Don't keep a wet head in a closed case for long.
• Keep the charger clean and dry. Wipe away toothpaste and water from the charging base.
• Don't share brush heads. Each person should have their own head, even if you share a handle. The iO2 Duo gives each person their own handle too.

Dental jargon, decoded

• Plaque: a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth every day. Brushing and cleaning between teeth remove it.
• Tartar (calculus): plaque that has hardened. You can't brush it off; a dentist or hygienist removes it.
• Gingivitis: early gum inflammation, often with red, swollen or bleeding gums.
• Periodontitis: more advanced gum disease that affects the tissues supporting the teeth. Dr Hutson, Oral-B's founder, was a periodontist: a specialist in exactly this.
• Enamel: the hard outer layer of a tooth. Brushing too hard and acidic food and drink can wear it.
• Fluoride: a mineral that helps strengthen enamel and protect against decay. Toothpaste strength is shown in ppm (parts per million).
• Interdental: between the teeth.
• Oscillating-rotating: the back-and-forth turning motion of Oral-B's round brush heads.
• Sonic: a different style of electric toothbrush that vibrates an oval head side to side at high speed.

Recycling old brushes and heads

An electric toothbrush handle contains a rechargeable battery and electronics, so it shouldn't go in your household bin when it eventually reaches the end of its life. In the UK, small electricals can be taken to your local household waste recycling centre, and many larger shops offer take-back points for small electricals and batteries. Look for the crossed-out wheelie bin symbol on the handle or packaging: it means the item needs to be recycled separately.

Used brush heads are mostly plastic and nylon. Check your local council's guidance on how to dispose of them, and look out for dedicated oral care recycling schemes, which some brands and retailers run from time to time.

The best way to cut waste, though, is to make the handle last. Keep it clean and dry, look after the charger, and it'll serve you for years while you change only the heads.

Electric or manual?

You can keep your teeth healthy with a manual brush if you use it well, for two minutes, twice a day. But many people find an electric toothbrush makes it easier to do a good job. The timer stops you finishing early, the pressure sensor stops you pressing too hard, and the movement does a lot of the work for you. Your dentist or hygienist can tell you whether they'd recommend one for you.

Oral-B and the rest of your routine

Brushing doesn't clean between your teeth. That's where interdental brushes or floss come in. Your dentist or hygienist can show you which size of interdental brush suits your gaps. If you find flossing difficult, ask them about alternatives such as water flossers.

And remember the toothpaste. A fluoride toothpaste is the most important thing you put on your brush, whichever brush you choose.

Your first week with an electric toothbrush

Switching from manual to electric feels odd at first. Here's what to expect and how to settle in.

• Days 1 to 3: it tickles, and you may get toothpaste splatter. Put the brush in your mouth before switching it on, and use a sensitive mode. Keep your lips loosely closed around the handle.
• Days 3 to 5: focus on technique. Slow down. Guide the head from tooth to tooth and let it sit on each one. Resist the urge to scrub.
• Days 5 to 7: switch to Daily Clean if you're comfortable. Use the 30-second prompts to work around all four quarters of your mouth.

Many people notice their teeth feel smoother after the first week. If your gums feel sore for more than a few days, check you're not pressing too hard, and talk to your dentist if it continues.

Toothbrush hygiene: myths and facts

• "You need to soak your brush head in mouthwash." Not necessary. Rinsing well and letting it air dry is what matters.
• "Closed cases keep brushes cleaner." At home, an open, upright brush that can dry is better. Use cases for travel, and let heads dry before closing them in.
• "Electric toothbrushes need charging every day." Not the ones we sell. The iO2 lasts up to four weeks on a full charge, according to Oral-B.
• "A harder brush cleans better." No. Firm pressure and hard bristles can damage gums and enamel. That's the problem Dr Hutson set out to solve in 1950.
• "Rinsing after brushing is good." The NHS advises spitting but not rinsing, so the fluoride stays on your teeth longer.

Before you buy: a quick checklist

1. Do you brush hard? Choose an iO with a pressure sensor. The iO3's green light is especially helpful.
2. Are your teeth or gums sensitive? The iO2 with its Gentle Care head and Super Sensitive mode is a gentle option.
3. Do you travel often? iO2 and iO3 come with travel cases; the iO3 adds a charger pouch.
4. Where will you charge it? If there's no shaver socket in your bathroom, budget for a 2-pin to 3-pin shaver adaptor.
5. What heads do you already have? If you have a drawer full of classic Oral-B heads, a Vitality Pro will use them. iO handles need iO heads.

Oral-B as a gift

An electric toothbrush can feel like an odd present, but plenty of people would love one and never get round to buying it. The iO2 starter set with toothpaste is ready to use straight out of the box. The iO2 Duo makes a practical gift for a couple setting up home together. And a bulk pack of heads is a surprisingly welcome stocking filler for anyone who already owns an Oral-B.

Why we chose Oral-B

Oral-B has been making toothbrushes since 1950, starting with a gum specialist who wanted bristles that were kind to gums. We chose a range that covers every budget and need: the Vitality Pro for value, the iO2 in four versions for most people, and the iO3 for those who want the green-and-red pressure sensor. We also stock genuine replacement heads for both types of handle, because the head is the part that touches your teeth.

Frequently asked questions

Who owns Oral-B?

Procter & Gamble, since it bought Gillette in 2005. Oral-B's electric toothbrushes are developed with Braun, which is also part of P&G.

What does the B in Oral-B stand for?

According to the company, "brush".

Can I use iO heads on my Vitality Pro?

No. iO heads only fit iO handles. The Vitality Pro uses classic round heads like Precision Clean and CrossAction.

Can I use Precision Clean heads on my iO?

No. iO handles need iO heads.

How long does an Oral-B brush head last?

About three months, or sooner if the bristles look worn.

Why does my charger have a 2-pin plug?

It's a UK bathroom shaver plug, designed for shaver sockets in bathrooms. Use a shaver adaptor if you want to charge from a standard 3-pin socket.

Is the iO2 good for sensitive teeth?

It has Sensitive and Super Sensitive modes and comes with a Gentle Care head in most versions, which many people with sensitive teeth find comfortable. If you have ongoing sensitivity, talk to your dentist, as it can have several causes.

What's the difference between the iO2 and iO3?

The iO3 has a colour-coded pressure sensor (green when right, red when too hard) and a Whitening mode instead of Super Sensitive. It also comes with a charger pouch.

Can children use these brushes?

Check the age guidance on the packaging and ask your dentist. Children should be supervised while brushing and use the right amount of toothpaste for their age, as the NHS advises.

Can two people share one handle?

Yes, as long as each person has their own brush head. Mark the heads with different coloured rings so they don't get mixed up. For couples, the iO2 Duo gives you two handles anyway.

Why does my pressure light come on so often?

It means you're pressing harder than the brush needs. Try holding the handle with your fingertips rather than a fist, and let the brush rest on each tooth. Within a week or two, most people learn the lighter touch.

I wear braces, have implants or crowns. Which brush should I use?

Ask your dentist or orthodontist. They know your mouth and can recommend the right brush, head and cleaning routine, including specialist heads or interdental brushes for around brackets and implants.

How do I know my brush head needs changing?

Look at the bristles. If they're bent, splayed or flattened, change the head. Otherwise, change it about every three months.

Does an electric toothbrush whiten teeth?

It can help remove surface stains, especially with a Whitening mode, but it doesn't change the natural colour of your teeth. For whitening treatment, talk to your dentist.

Find your Oral-B

• Oral-B Vitality Pro with 2 brush heads
• Oral-B iO2 with travel case
• Oral-B iO2 with Ultimate Clean head, Night Black
• Oral-B iO2 with travel case and 3D White toothpaste
• Oral-B iO2 Duo, Night Black and Calm Pink
• Oral-B iO3 with travel case
• Oral-B iO Ultimate Clean replacement heads
• Oral-B Pro Precision Clean replacement heads, 12 pack

If you're choosing for yourself and you're not sure, pick the iO2. It's the one we'd recommend to most people: gentle, simple, with a pressure sensor and a travel case, and the smooth feel of the iO range.

Sources: Oral-B entry on Wikipedia, Electric Teeth's history of Oral-B, Dentistry.co.uk (June 2020, iO launch) and NHS guidance on how to keep your teeth clean. Product details such as battery life are manufacturer claims. This article is general information, not dental advice.