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Today I’m sharing my thoughts and experience using the Philips Sonicare DiamondClean Smart electric toothbrush, and why I think it is a superior toothbrush when compared to the Oral B electric toothbrushes.
In the Philips Sonicare line, this is the best model at the time of writing.
Why Use A Toothbrush With Sonicwave Technology?
This is the one area that sets this toothbrush apart from most other electric toothbrushes. While most electric toothbrushes use some sort of oscillating or back and forth movement, this type of toothbrush produces sonic waves generated due to the high amount of vibrational motion that it generates. The new line of toothbrushes generates up to 62,000 movements per minute!
What Does That Mean For Your Teeth?
It means that the generated sonic waves can actually go through the spaces between two teeth to disrupt and loosen plaque, without the toothbrushes’ bristles making contact with the space. If you don’t floss regularly, this type of sonic wave technology can be a good backup. However, keep in mind that nothing can truly replace flossing.
Package Contents
The package comes with the Sonicare Diamondclean electric toothbrush, two brush heads, a carrying case for travel and a wired charger. Please note that unlike previous Sonicare models where charging was available through the carrying case via USB, this is not the case here – too bad.
Sonicare DiamondClean Smart Build Quality
The build quality of this brush is excellent. It is sturdy and firm without any creaking, gaps or loose areas. Considering that it will be soaked in water at least once a day, this is reassuring. There is some play on the top attachment stem where the brush heads fit, but this is necessary for the frequency of vibrations that this brush produces.
Sonicare DiamondClean Features
This model allows you to change the intensity of the vibration to your liking through a low, medium and high setting. You will get the most benefit from the highest setting, of course.
The brush also allows you to change the brushing mode. You can choose from these options:
- Clean
- White
- Gum Health
- Deep Clean
- Tongue Care
Battery Life
I usually brush for at least 2 to 3 minutes each time, and I brush once in the morning and once in the evening. A full charge will usually last me for around two weeks. This is an excellent option for short trips, too, since you will have enough juice to last you without needing to take a charger. I have used previous Sonicare toothbrushes before this model, and I have always been pleased with the battery life even after a year or two.
Brush Head Selection
Depending on the model you get, you usually receive standard brush heads, brush heads for gentle brushing, or brush heads for whitening. Regardless of the brush head you get, once it is inserted at the brush’s tip, the brush will automatically select the correct brushing mode to match the brush head type. You also have the option of manually selecting the brushing mode that you want regardless of the brush head type if needed.
Considerations
While this is an excellent toothbrush in most areas, it does have a downside. First, there is a gap between where the brush head connects and the brush head unit’s bottom. This gap will collect water and build-up over time, so it requires cleaning regularly and drying off. The repetitive action of removing and replacing the brush head to gain access to clean this area or dry it off will prematurely weaken the attachment stem for the brush head unit. Over time this causes failure that results in a much weaker vibration rendering the brush ineffective at generating sonic waves.
I have been using the Philips Sonicare line for the last 10 years, and most toothbrushes last me around 3 years on average. I did have an issue with the main attachment stem becoming loose in under a year. Fortunately, when I contacted Philips, they issued me a replacement brush after I gave them my model’s serial number to confirm that it was under a year since the purchase date.
Final Thoughts
I think this is the best electric toothbrush that you can purchase right now. I have used Oral-B’s offerings, but I find that my teeth are left much smoother after brushing, which I attribute to the Sonicare brush’s superior plaque removal. Once you try it, it is hard to go back to other electric toothbrushes.
Keep in mind that not everyone will be used to having something vibrating in their mouth (clean thoughts, people). However, once you get used to it after a few uses, it isn’t an issue. If you have arthritis or have a hard time holding a regular toothbrush, this brush’s wider handle really helps. You also only need to place the brush head at the gumline, so no additional manual action from the user is required, like moving the brush up and down.
If you purchase this toothbrush, pay careful attention to the main attachment stem when inserting the brush head or removing the brush head. Ensure that you perform both of these actions as vertically as possible and not at an angle. This will reduce the amount of stress placed on the attachment stem. Also, be very careful not to drop the brush since that can damage the internal mechanism and affect the toothbrush’s effectiveness. If you are careful with the toothbrush, it should last you for around 2 to 3 years without issue.
I highly recommend this toothbrush even though it requires that you should be a bit more gentle with it than other toothbrushes.
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