Non-iO models
Best all-round: CrossAction / Amazon, Oral-B / ~£10.49
Best for a gentler clean: Sensi UltraThin / Amazon, Oral-B / ~£26.88
iO models
Best all-round: iO Ultimate Clean / Amazon, Oral-B / ~£24.87
Best for a gentler clean: iO Gentle Clean / Amazon, Oral-B / ~£23.99
Why we picked them
Our team have been using Oral-B brushes for years and regularly repeat tests as we review new Oral-B toothbrushes.
Having tried all of the Oral-B brush heads we have found that the angled and medium firmness bristles of the CrossAction head provide the most invigorating, deep clean of the teeth and gums.
In our testing and daily use we have seen and felt that this head cleans more effectively than other brush heads on offer.
That being said, we've found there isn't that much difference between the various heads. The most important thing is to make sure you are using the correct brushing technique.
The Sensit UltraThin (also known as the Sensitive Clean) is our other top recommendation. Although we haven't quite achieved the same deep clean feeling as with the CrossAction head, we've found that the Sensitive Clean still does a good job of removing plaque. The soft, ultrafine bristles are more gentle on the teeth. It feels less aggressive and is more enjoyable to use on tender, inflamed and bleeding gums. It is a must-pick for those with gum recession and tooth sensitivity.
These heads are compatible with Oral-B's Vitality, Pro, Smart and Genius brush handles, but not the iO range.
iO handles have their own range of brush heads that fit and work with iO handles only.
The Ultimate Clean and Gentle Care brush heads are the iO specific equivalents.
They look a little different, but there are many similarities, like angled bristles on the Ultimate Clean, as per the CrossAction head.
Key things to know
Video explanation
In this video we explain what each brush head does and why we picked our top recommendations.
FlossAction vs CrossAction vs Precision Clean
Assuming you're shopping for a non-iO brush, and unless you’re looking at one of Oral-B's specialised heads, these are likely the three brush heads you’re choosing between.
Technically speaking, there is very little difference between them. They achieve the same thing: good plaque removal. The FlossAction head is more oval than the rounded CrossAction and Precision Clean.
In our testing, we’ve noticed very little difference. This means the decision comes down to personal preference of how the head feels when you use it. Again, for us, that is CrossAction, but it may be different for you.
To narrow the choice, we would say choose between CrossAction and Precision Clean to begin with. Depending on which one came with your brush, you could try the other to see if you prefer it.
FlossAction is designed to help remove debris from between your teeth and gums. The 4 larger paddle like bristles are supposed to be the key to its effectiveness. When we tested it, we can’t say we noticed this happening any more than it did with CrossAction and Precision Clean. The way they move makes the brushing sensation feel quite different. Even though it's designed to clean better, the FlossAction head can't replace flossing. Irrespective of the head you use, you still need to clean between the teeth with interdental tools.
The shape and angles of the bristles of the Precision Clean gives the feeling that the head cups the tooth more than the CrossAction or FlossAction.
Whether you opt for the Precision Clean or FlossAction, plaque removal is still going to be extremely good, provided you are brushing for the right time and with the correct technique.
Do the specialised heads work?
Yes, Oral-B's specialised heads can be useful for some people. In the sections below we've said a bit about our experience with two of the most popular ones – sensitive and whitening.
Sensitive heads
We have found that the sensitive heads are worth using at times when our gums have been a bit more tender.
The ultra soft bristles move over the teeth and gum surfaces with a motion that feels less abrasive than some other brush heads, reducing the sensitivity on the teeth.
Round in shape like other Oral-B heads, the bristles are arranged in thinner clusters and are reminiscent of petals of a flower. There is a slight sweeping curve to the shape of these clusters impacting for the better the overall brushing sensation and cleaning results.
Our team have found that with regular use this head helps reduce gum bleeding and inflammation of the gum tissue, restoring red and puffy gums to a healthy light pink colour.
Oral-B advises using its sensitive heads with a sensitive cleaning mode, but we've found it's not critical. Yes, it helps, but if you don't have a brush with sensitive cleaning mode, you'll still find there's a noticeable difference just from using a soft head.
Similarly, we've found that using a non-soft head with a sensitive cleaning mode can also make a big difference if our gums or teeth are feeling sensitive.
These are the soft / sensitive heads for non-iO brushes:
There is an equivalent head for the iO brush handles. Known as Gentle Care, it is similar to the Sensi UltraThin head, but the 4000 individual bristle filaments that make up the head are organized slightly differently. The bristle clusters are thicker with less curvature to the profile.
These are the soft / sensitive heads for iO brushes:
Whitening heads
We've found that Oral-B's whitening heads can remove some very light staining, but don't expect miracles. If your teeth have been yellow or stained for some time, don't expect this brush head to return them to a much whiter shade.
A professional cleaning or whitening service is needed to remove heavy staining. But, these heads are worth trying if you have some light staining. If you are a heavy smoker, red wine, tea or coffee drinker, using a whitening head can help to prevent stains from building up.
To enhance the effect of the whitening head it is best, although not essential, to use it with an Oral-B brush that has a whitening mode. It can also be beneficial to use a whitening toothpaste with it too. Such pastes are usually more abrasive, helping lift the stains more quickly. But, we don't advise long term use of such as it can result in more wear of the tooth surface.
The 3D White head, suitable for non-iO brushes has an oval-like shape to the head, rather than a perfect circle.
For iO brushes, Radiant White is the name of the whitening brush head.
The design differs slightly from the 3D White head, but there are notable similarities, with 5 'polishing' petals that buff the tooth surface to dislodge the microscopic particles that stain the teeth.
Other specialised brush heads
Oral-B's other specialised heads are worth considering if you have particular needs. We've included photos below so you can see what they look like in real life. For more explanation of what to use them for, see our video above.
Genuine vs generic
Manufacturer original brush heads, often known as genuine heads are, in our opinion the best, and will always be our recommendation.
However, there are a large number of generic or aftermarket options. These heads often look very similar to and perform comparably to the originals. The big advantage of these is that they are considerably cheaper.
A no-name brush head can cost as little as £1 compared to the £3 or more for a manufacturer original. Over 3 years that is a saving of £24!
Unfortunately, not all are created equal and you can end up getting what you pay for.
The cheapest Oral-B compatible heads will not have rounded tips to the bristles. We've found that this results in a sharper and harsher feeling on the teeth and gums. It can make for an unpleasant brushing experience, particularly if you have sensitive gums.
We've also found that the plastics they are made from look and feel cheap and the bristles are often stiff. We have experienced them breaking, bristles falling out and most importantly, not cleaning the teeth as well.
Paying a little more, around £1.50 per head has, in our testing, resulted in a better experience. In fact, many of these heads are very good and in a blindfolded test, it has proven hard to tell the difference to the manufacturer's.
iO vs non-iO brush heads
Oral-B has become well known for its small round brush heads. It's what differentiates them from the other sonic brushes.
Yet, despite the newer iO models still having round brush heads, they are a little different to the heads for non-iO models. If you have spent years using the normal round heads, the iO heads feel different in the mouth.
We've found that the size is the most notable difference. Those with small or cramped mouths will notice this most. The size difference is related to the height or depth of the head. Generally, they are about 10-15% bigger.
The back of the brush head is shaped differently too, there's a larger plastic area at the back. It's smooth on the cheeks but makes the iO heads feel larger in the mouth and slightly more tricky to move about.
The brushing sensation on the teeth and gums is more gentle, irrespective of the head used. This is mainly down to the brush motor in the iO Series handles. We have noticed a less harsh or aggressive sensation when brushing. We have still gotten an invigorating deep clean feeling though.
Whilst both heads push on and pull off the attachment is different, hence iO heads are not compatible with non-iO handles.
Perhaps the biggest negative is the cost. As a general rule, iO heads cost 2x that of those replacement heads for the Vitality, Pro, Smart and Genius models.
iO heads are also harder to keep clean. See below.
Watch out for mould and grime
It's vitally important to remove the brush head after use and give it a thorough rinse to remove residual toothpaste and debris.
Leaving it exposed to airflow so the bristles can dry is extremely helpful too.
Unless you are travelling, avoid as best as possible covering the bristles as this limits their ability to dry and can encourage bacterial growth, particularly in warm environments.
It's possible for mould to form in any of the Oral-B heads, but we have found that the iO heads are particularly susceptible.
Compatibility: which heads fit and work with my brush handle?
The following table shows which brush heads fit and are compatible with which brush handles.
| Bursh Head Style | Brush Head Image | Handle Compatibility |
|---|---|---|
| CrossAction |  | Vitality, Pro, Smart & Genius |
| FlossAction |  | Vitality, Pro, Smart & Genius |
| Sensi UltraThin/Pro GumCare |  | Vitality, Pro, Smart & Genius |
| 3D White |  | Vitality, Pro, Smart & Genius |
| Precision Clean |  | Vitality, Pro, Smart & Genius |
| Deep Sweep/TriZone |  | Vitality, Pro, Smart & Genius |
| Ortho Care |  | Vitality, Pro, Smart & Genius |
| Interspace/Power Tip |  | Vitality, Pro, Smart & Genius |
| Ultimate Clean |  | iO Series (iO3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 & 10) |
| Gentle Care |  | iO Series (iO3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 & 10) |
| Radiant White |  | iO Series (iO3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 & 10) |
| Targeted Clean/Specialised Clean |  | iO Series (iO3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 & 10) |
How do I know when it's time to replace a head?
The general consensus amongst the dental profession is to replace a brush head every 3 months on average. Sooner, if it shows obvious signs of wear.
Using a brush head for longer can actually cause harm to the teeth because bristles can become damaged and less effective at how they sweep across the tooth surfaces, in between teeth and along the gum line.
Most Oral-B heads have fading or colour changing bristles that alert you when it is time to replace the head. You will notice the colour change over a period of 3 months, typically.
iO handles will alert you when a head replacement is due via the handle itself. There is either a yellow light on the handle or a message on the screen, subject to model.
Bluetooth enabled brushes offer the option of being reminded to replace the head via the Oral-B smartphone app.
How to fit Oral-B brush heads
To replace a brush head, you pull off the existing brush head and push on the replacement. The heads will require a small amount of force to push on and pull off, they are designed to be a snug fit. We demonstrate the method in the video below.
Are Oral-B brush heads interchangeable?
Yes, Oral-B brush heads are fully interchangeable.
So whether your brush came with a CrossAction or Sensitive brush head you can easily clip on a FlossAction or 3D White head if that is your preference.
The only catch is that non-iO heads for the Vitality, Pro, Smart and Genius ranges are not compatible with iO brush heads, and vice versa.
For example, the Oral-B Pro 1000 brush handle can't make use of the iO Ultimate Clean brush head as it is not designed for a Pro Series handle. Just like the CrossAction head is not designed for the iO Series handles.
The interchangeable nature of the brush heads are explained in the following video:
Icons or coloured rings to identify whose head is whose
The brush heads compatible with the Vitality, Pro, Smart and Genius models come provided with a detachable coloured ring that fits to the base of the brush head, whereas the iO brush heads have different symbols printed onto the front of the brush head shaft.
These rings or symbols are included to help you to identify whose brush head is whose in a shared bathroom.
For example, if a couple shared a brush handle and used the same style of head, they would know whose head is whose because of the coloured ring or icon.
Hello Jon
Thank you for the very good page.
Hi Jon, thank you for the detailed article. I have recently bought the Oral b io and the cost of replacement heads is just crazy, and I couldn't find any aftermarket brush heads. Could it be that Oral b patented the io-fitting mechanism?
Hi Philip. I haven’t come across any yet. I am sure it is only a matter of time though.
The first iO model was launched in 2020. In the last 2 years, many more models have been added, so I suspect other companies will soon begin creating an aftermarket option now that the iO models are becoming more commonplace.
I am not aware of Oral-B patenting the mechanism, but it isn't an unreasonable suggestion at all. This might be why we haven't seen any yet. I can't say I have looked into whether a patent exists.
I agree with Lin, I too have changed to the Sensi Ultra Thin and have found exactly the same problem - they are definitely not as gentle as the old type and cut my gums too! The bristles on the old head were all one length and perfect, but I can't seem to find it any more. It was light blue in the middle with dark blue around the edge. Where can I find it please? Please bring back the old Sensitive Clean brush heads, they were so much better.
Very informative.
I just switched to an Oral B I.O. 7. Are there any generic replacement brush heads available? Thank you.
Not that I have seen as yet Sally.
Sensi ultra thin is not so gentle like the old style sensitive head...I just hate it, it made my gums bleed again. And I don't like that they made it really thin, I have no idea why they should change perfect bristles to this terrible one...
Sorry to read you don't like the UltraThin bristles Lin. There are times when people prefer a certain style over another. I am surprised the bristles have caused your gums to bleed if you are a regular electric toothbrush user. This could indicate some mild gum disease (gingivitis) as they are reaching areas of the gum or stimulating them in ways they haven't been previously hence the bleeding. I am not sure how long you have been using the head for, but perhaps with a few days of use you will find it more bearable?
Hi I have an Oral B 2500 toothbrush. I also have an Interspace toothbrush attachment. I put it on Sensitive Mode. Is this ok for cleaning under Implants? I am worried about it being too powerful for gums, irritating and receding? Similarly I want to use it for cleaning gumlines and awkward sides of teeth but worried I will stray onto gums. Will this be all right? Thanks.
It should be fine Daniel. It doesn't hurt to discuss this with your dentist for their advice based on your personal circumstances.
Thanks very much.
The for many ppl best brush, the "Soft Clean" was not reviewed at all.
Simon, as far as I am aware the 'soft clean' heads are the same as the 'sensitive' brush heads.
I have experiment with the Dual Clean and find it to be very good. I have also tried the Cross action. The dual clean is available in the USA but not here.
Any comments? Just curious.
The dual clean head is an older brush head style, that I believe Oral-B is moving away from, in preference to the smaller round brush heads. I suspect the cleaning action is better and helps give a more effective clean overall. But I don't have the data to confirm this.
Many people are very happy with the dual clean head and it is fine to continue using this if you prefer. The main thing is to keep up a good routine, brushing twice a day, 2 minutes etc rather than worrying too much about the brush head, as a general rule.
Thank you.
I've just found in my cupboard a single long, thin, bristle brush attachment for your electric toothbrushes. It's really good as it gets right between the teeth. Do you still manufacture these please or know where I could buy another one? Thanks
Hi Ann
I am not sure what this head you are referring to is. I am happy to try and help further. Perhaps you can email a picture to us?
Having difficulty fitting new brush head. Please advise
Christine. What brush handle do you have and what head? Do you know.
The vast majority of Oral-B heads should just push on and pull off.
Hi Jon
Having recently purchased the Oral B Pro 2 2500 from Amazon following your recommendation I was wondering if there is any difference between the recommended Oral-B Cross Action Toothbrush Heads Pack of 4 and the Oral-B Cross-Action Replacement Toothbrush Head Black Edition with CleanMaximiser Technology that is advertised on Amazon along with the pro 2 2500.
Kind regards
Mohammed
Hi Mohammed.
The 'Black Edition' is simply the colour of the plastic, so black rather than the more typical white.
The maximise bristles do the same job as the standard fading indicator bristles, but are slightly more obvious.
A new brush head will have a number of bristle tufts where all the bristles are green in colour.
What happens is that over a period of approximately 3 months, the green bristles are dyed yellow to indicate the brush head requires changing.
I hope this helps.
Hi Jon
Many thanks for your reply. I was just wondering whether the description of ' CleanMaximiser Technology' on the Black Edition is just jargon or is there any real benefit from purchasing this.
Kind regards
Mohammed
I am not sure what description specifically you are referring to? I think all CrossAction heads will default to having this CleanMaximiser bristles in time. To my knowledge they clean as well as the regular crossaction heads, the difference being the bristles. Apologies if I am missing something.
Hi Jon
Thanks for the prompt feedback. I was referring the brush heads on the Black Edition having this 'Clean Maximiser Technology', but as you stated it seems there is no real difference.
Many thanks
Mohammed
With all the fake heads in circulation nowadays, changing the colour of the genuine heads has confused me, at least this article here has explained this, thanks for that, however, Braun should have done this via TV adverts.
Hello! This website and what you do is absolutely brilliant. Love how thorough it is and the knowledge of the tech as well as the dental expertise to share with us such incredible learnings to understand these brushes much better.
Thanks Hawaa for the kind words. It is lovely to read such a comment.
Hi Jon I’ve been using the Oral b Precision Clean brush head for years and really like them as they’re not to stiff just right but when I went to get some more they have changed them to the Clean Maximiser and they feel harder than the original
Is it just me worrying unnecessarily as I don’t like change
I’ve tried the sensi thin ones but they are too soft
Many Thanks
Wendy
Hi Wendy.
They may well have changed slightly. I don't think you need to worry, they are safe to use. But it is important you have heads you are happy with.
I am surprised that you say the Sensi UltraThin are too soft. Many people like them and soft bristles are the most recommended and popular.
There is a pack of 8 PrecisionClean heads (not Clean Maximiser) version available for sale here on Amazon.
Hi, great article!
I want to buy electric toothbrushes for my 11 years old twins. I looked at the teen oral-B one. There aren't many styles for this age group! Just one!!! I am wondering if they can use any other adult type? Then I noticed that when searching for the brush heads for this style (the teen oral b) it doesn't seen to be a specific one for it, does it mean they can use any one? I am confused now. What is the reason then to get a kid or a teen one, just the holder? I am based in the uk.
Many thanks
Hi Gemma.
I would suggest you pick up the Oral-B Pro 2 2500 for your twins.
At 11 years old, they can now use an adult toothbrush.
Typically the Pro 2 2500 comes with a CrossAction brush head. It would be better if you picked up the Seni UltraThin head as that is softer and more gentle on the teeth and gums.
There are 2 cleaning modes on the 2500. Daily clean and sensitive. The Sensitive mode might be slightly better to start with. Once used to the brush they can use the more powerful daily clean mode if they like.
The 'Oral-B Teen' is really just a rebadged adult electric toothbrush and includes a brush head designed for braces.
With very few exceptions, all the different Oral-B brush heads work with the different Oral-B brush handles.
If your children were much younger there would be a benefit to get a kids specific model as they have slightly smaller heads and less powerful. But that doesn't need to apply here.
You might want to get just 1 brush handle and then let them share it. Of course they need their own head. Just be mindful if they are ever apart this is when you might need a 2nd handle or solution.
I hope this helps. Any questions, just ask.
The early Oral B cross action electric charging toothbrushes had a short stem brush head with a snap tool. None of the above in this article fit and these are now hard to find if at all. Disappointed in P&G and Oral B for not supporting earlier generation electric brushes of my type.
Hi
Yes one BRAUN ORAL B toothbrush Ni-MH 1AF00712027
The other exactly the same toothbrush Ni-MH 1BR 92040238
THANKS
Thanks Wendy. Perhaps to Oral-B themselves, these might mean something, but unfortunately to me they are not recognisable.
Is this a very old toothbrush? Any other indicators or things to help determine specifically what model it is?
Perhaps you could send a picture to us by emailing contact[at]electricteeth[dot]co[dot]uk
Hi
I am having problems getting the right toothbrush heads for my toothbrush.
I have a bruan pro-timer electric toothbrush and believe the cross action heads are the correct ones. But having tried these and many others the heads do not fit this toothbrush.
The toothbrush has a square tip and all these heads have a round fitting?
Can you help please?
Thanks
Hi Wendy.
Are there any model numbers on the bottom of the brush handle that you can share?
Hi
Yes one BRAUN ORAL B toothbrush Ni-MH 1AF00712027
The other exactly the same toothbrush Ni-MH 1BR 92040238
THANKS
I still think that Oral-B makes it far too difficult for the average user to come to an informed choice of toothbrush head when, with just a few exceptions, they all claim to do everything. Life would be easier if they gave recommendations on which head(s) NOT to use in preference to another, depending on one's circumstances. Having such a range of very similar products is just trying to be "too clever" IMHO - marketing gone out of control.
One true distinction would be a "reciprocating" brush-action floss head (a mechanical version of a manual Te-Pe interdental brush) but I don't think that the Oral-B Floss Action does this. Pity because a good design could give very efficient results compared with ordinary flossing.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts Iain. I quite agree it is made way too complicated. For the vast majority, the CrossAction or the Sensi UltraThink heads are the best and only choices you need.
Hi Jon, Did your research reveal any differences in how effectively the various heads cleaned the "inner surface edges" of one's teeth (as opposed to the exposed flat surfaces) - which must be the test that sorts the men out from the boys. This is where discolouration is most likely in my experience.
You'd think that by its name the "Floss Action" would perform best in this respect, but I'm not so sure.
Hi Iain.
Whilst over the years I have conducted a number of tests and made observations on how well each cleaned, I have not chosen to conduct any tests that really analyse in detail as you suggest.
Perhaps one day we will do such tests, but this generally calls for a much more controlled clinical/scientific setup and this isn't quite what we aim for at this time.
I agree you would think it would perform best and from memory it is not terrible, but simply put it is not a replacement for interdental cleaning be that with floss or interdental brushes. 👍
I am slowly coming round to the view that the best option would be to think in terms of a combination of 2 (or more!) heads if and provided that each did a different job. Taking the Cross Action as a base line, combine it with for example the Interspace. At eBay prices this would not be wildly expensive. The Interspace "looks" more penetrating than the Floss Action - or at least more different from the CA.
The Ultimate Clean you would think by its description would the "best" but I am not sure if it has not now ceased to exist.
Jon, have a triumph pro 3764 that has no groove in the brush head. can’t seem to find replacement that fits. Any guidance?
Hi Sue. As per this page on the Oral-B support website. Any of the heads mentioned in this article should fit.
Hi John,
On the table above you have written that the 3D white is not an everyday cleaning solution. However, I also also seen a comment in which you reply that a person who wanted a whitening effect would be better off using the crossAction and the 3D white interchangeably (each for 3 months). However, I was wondering if a person were to adopt to this method, would this mean that for the 3 moths that they were using the 3D white everyday , they wouldn’t be cleaning their teeth effectively?
Hi Lara.
Thanks for your question. In short, the answer is no. You can still clean your teeth fairly effectively with the 3D white head.
But, in my opinion, it is a bit more complicated than this.
The 3D white brush head can be used on a daily basis and will do a perfectly fine job, but I don't feel it is quite as good as the likes of the CrossAction and Sensi UltraThin brush heads.
The data analysing these different brush heads does not really exist to really understand the true differences. Some of this is based on my personal experience and understanding.
I feel, from use and the head design that the likes of the CrossAction and Sensi UltraThin are better placed to give an excellent overall coverage for the vast majority of people.
Many are focused on getting a 'whitening' effect on their teeth, therefore opt for 3D White. But, in reality, this can be achieved with the CrossAction and other brush heads.
Whilst it is of course up to you, I think most people will benefit most from CrossAction or Sensi UltraThin for a great overall clean.
I hope this explains things a little better.
Hi Jon
I’m a older woman who has implants and a crown plus sensitive teeth and gums I find that I have a small mouth and the regular adult toothbrushes seem to big for the back of my mouth does oral B make a smaller toothbrush for adults ?
Hi Patricia.
I am afraid the answer is no. Oral-B brush heads are only available in one size. The exception is the TriZone brush head, but that is even bigger. Their kids brush head isn't that much smaller either.
Hi. my wife has 2 x Braun toothbrushes,
a battery driven 4744
a rechargable 3756.
Although they have the same sized metal driving spindle, the plastic casing below the spindle are of different diameters.
Where can I buy replacement heads for the battery model and be certain I am getting the correct diameter casing ? ?
Thanks, Nick
Hi Jon, how can I send you an attachment with a picture of both Braun tooth brushes , side by side ?
Nick
Nicholas.
Probably best to email us. Send the email to [email protected]
Hi Nicholas.
Thanks for the question.
Oral-B brush heads are designed to be interchangeable and should fit on any brush handle.
I am not aware of a different style or fitment of brush heads for any model.
That said, I am not familiar with the battery driven 4744 that you mention. Can you provide some more details on this brush and what it looks like etc?
Hi, what is the difference between a oral B replacement head and a oral B refill head,
as some packages say refill and some say replacements.
Thanks Paul.
As far as I am aware of Paul, they are the same thing, just another way of referring to them.
Hi Jon,
Thank you for the guide, it's very helpful! I have partially ruptured wisdom teeth on my lower jaw, which are still mostly covered by 'gum flaps' (an 'operculum' i think it's called?). It's very hard to clean effectively under these gum flaps and often I struggle with a bad smell/taste coming from this area.
Which of the Oral B heads would you recommend for cleaning under these gum flaps effectively? Ideally I need something that both lifts up the gum flaps and also cleans under them whilst lifted. Possibly Precision Clean or Interspace/Power Tip?
Thanks in advance for any help or advice.
Hi Chris.
Thanks for the question.
It can be very difficult to clean this area, as you are experiencing. For some, it is more of an issue than others.
I do not think the interspace tip is the best tool for the job. Any of the other brush heads should work fairly effectively as the bristles should sweep over, under and around that gum tissue if you position the brush head right at the back of the mouth.
You might find the greatest additional benefit from a water flosser. The power of the water flow and the ability to position the jet of water could potentially help clean out any bacteria and debris very effectively and give the extra pressure needed to dislodge particles that might not be with regular brushing. It might be tricky to position correctly, initially, but the use of a pickpocket tip that comes provided with the likes of the Waterpik Aquarius (and a bit of practice) might help.
You might want to consider using a mouthwash at certain times of the day also for extra cleansing. The Fresh Breath Company's range of oral rinses are a potential option.
It is also worth getting the opinion of your dentist.
I hope this helps.
Hi Jon,
Thank you so much for such a speedy reply. Really appreciate you taking the time to do this & I'll look into all of these suggestions now.
Thanks again
I have an Oral B Professional Care electric toothbrush. I have bought two different packs of replacement brush heads, but they don't fit the handle. Despite many websites, including Oral B itself, saying all replacement brush heads will fit all handles, with the odd rare exception. So what replacement brush heads fit the Professional Care handle.
Hi Iain.
Professional Care is a name applied to many of Oral-B toothbrushes. This is essentially what 'Pro' is now short for in many product names.
Are you able to share a photo of the toothbrush you have or the brush heads you have been using for me to try and help?
You can always email me if easier contact [at] electricteeth [dot] co [dot] uk.
On the link you posted for the CrossAction replacements https://www.amazon.co.uk/Oral-B-CrossAction-Replacement-Toothbrush-Electric/dp/B00K2UAX6O?tag=brush-heads-can-21&psc=1 there are lots of complaints saying the heads are not genuine?
Hi Tony,
There are indeed such comments.
What you need to do is check that the version you are buying are marked as 'Dispatched from and sold by Amazon.'
If they are 'Dispatched from and sold by Amazon.' you can be assured of genuine brush heads.
One of the pros and cons of Amazon, is other sellers can offer the same product.
Depending on price and availability, this other seller can be shown as the default seller, above Amazon themselves.
Some sellers sadly do offer counterfeit products. Whilst Amazon takes steps to try and avoid this, there are loopholes.
Of course not all sellers are like this, but if they are sold by Amazon, you will get the genuine product.
Good day and a happy new year!
Wanted to ask whether the Sensi Ultra-Thin brush heads are actually the same size as the brush heads for the Oral-B children electric tooth brushes.
Marious,
I can't say I have physically checked all the brush heads against each other, but I do know the Sensi UltraThin brush head is the same size as the brush head supplied with the Oral-B Junior electric toothbrush.
Great. Thank you very much for your answer
A potentially very useful guide, let down by the fact that the Sensi Ultra Thin brushes are not fully explained. They've obviously been patched in after being introduced (in one place being Ultra Think ?) but most of the guide still describes Sensitive, which I'm not sure even exist now. They are not on display at our city centre Boots, at least. Can we just assume Sensitive Ultra Thin has same action and benefits as Sensitive? Is this guide being fully updated? Thanks.
Hi Dave.
Thanks for spotting our typo 'Ultra-Think' rather than 'Ultra-Thin' this will be amended.
Sorry that you feel the guide is let down by the Sensi Ultra-Thin heads having not been properly explained. Sensitive heads do still exist, but they are being phased out with Sensi Ultra-Thin being the replacements to them. Availability will depend nationwide and from store to store.
The new Ultra-Thin heads provide the same benefits, but the bristle formations are different. Oral-B have yet to offer a promotional video for the new heads like they have with the original Sensitive head.
If I can help further let me know.
Thanks Jon
I'm impressed at your speed of response. For any Saturday of the year it would be impressive, but on the Saturday between Christmas and New Year it's amazing.
My wife's teeth and gums have given her problems throughout her life so choice of brush head is very important to her. More information on the Sensi Ultra Thin would have therefore been very welcome as this is probably the brush that suits her best.... but it is difficult to confirm when it is omitted from most of the tables and videos! She will try the brush within the Pro 2 (2000s) we've just bought (I think our 5th Oral-B over many years) and check back here hoping for more information before buying additional heads.
Hi Dave,
I aim to reply as quickly as is possible.
Sensitive brush heads are a great option and provide benefit whilst also being soft. If you click: this Amazon link it will take you through to the listing page for the Sensi Ultra-Thin brush heads and has an 'official' Oral-B description. Hopefully that will address and concerns or queries you may have.
If your wife has the Pro 2 2000s then that comes with the same head and she can experience it first hand. Hopefully its a pleasure to brush with.
I have a Vitality Sonic model, and it appears that the bar simply vibrates. Which head will work with this one? How do they work, mechanically?
Hi John. The brush heads you need I believe are these ones on Amazon. This brush must be a good few years old now? One of the last ones produced before the more interchangeable style that is common now.
Can one buy somewhere the full 10-head set, all the brush heads?
Hi Philip. No there is no such option to buy a kit that contains them all.
I find brush heads too big. Dentist says I should look for a small sensitive head. Can u advise. Am new user having used sonicare with small brush for 10 years. Have bought pro 3000 but brush head giving me a sore jaw.
Hi Barney. The brush heads from Oral-B come in only one size. They tend to be the smaller/smallest options from all the brands that still deliver good cleaning performance. Sadly I have no other suggestions as there are no alternatives that are smaller that I am aware of.
Hi
Which brush-head is best for crowns and bridges, as well as for sensitive gums?
Thanks
D
Deirdre, Any of the heads should be fine, but you may wish to opt for the sensitive brush head to aid your sensitive gums.
Okay, Oral B brushes and replacement heads are of great quality but they are, undeniably, expensive. Cheap copies and "clones" are rubbish and potentially dangerous. I think, however I've discovered a midway course of action. Check on Amazon for a Chinese company called RRZ. They produce generic Oral B heads but openly point out that they are copies and not intended to be mistaken for originals or clones. They are of excellent quality, great fit and have coloured rings. They come beautifully packed and are well made and hygienic. They are not cheap but are competitively priced. A variety of 6 heads: Dual Clean, Sensitive, Precision Clean, Cross Action, 3D White and Floss Action are available for about £12 and 8 Dual Cleans for about £7 The company appears, through it's produce and advertising, to be reliable, trustworthy and honourable. I'd have no hesitation in recommending them and hope that this post proves to be helpful You have produced a very informative and useful website, by the way. Thanks.
Can these brush heads be used with my Genius 9000 ?
Yes they can Graham.
Thanks Jon, Happy New Year mate....
The thing I'm most interested in is whether the fitting of the head to the toothbrush is the same for all - and I mean ALL Oral B toothbrush handles. Seems impossible to find this in this otherwise comprehensive review.
My handle, for example has a fitting which is best described as a 'screwdriver type fitting'. i.e. similar to a slotted screwdriver. Is this more or less standard? could I buy different heads which would all fit - even if they were for different cleaning applications or purposes?
I don't want to have to buy different types of handle, all called -- very confusingly - Oral B where which model they are is hard to find.
Hi Norman.
Thanks for the comments and the question. It is indeed very confusing and apologies if we have overlooked this in our article.
In short the answer is yes, all brushes have the same rush head fitting and all brush heads should fit.
There may well be some exceptions due to certain models being particularly old, but you can be pretty much assured that if you purchase the brush heads shown in this article they will work with your Oral-B brush.
We have two Braun toothbrushes in our household. The one I prefer takes brush heads which are oval in shape where it joins the handle, but most replacements seem to be round in shape. What do I need to ask for?
Hi Geoff. Thanks for the comment. Are you able to send or link us to a picture. Not entirely sure what brush head you are referring to and/or what model of brush you have. Would it happen to be similar to the heads shown here on Amazon?
very HELPFUL WEB SITE . Can the floss action head be used for implants ?
Hi Stephen. We can confirm that the Floss Action brush head can be used with implants.
My Trizone heads work there way off the handle leaving the exposed shaft in my mouth
Howard. Thanks for the comment. That seeks rather odd. What electric toothbrush are you using and are the brush heads being used, official Oral-B TriZone heads?