The 10 Best Toothbrush Heads
This wiki has been updated 18 times since it was first published in January of 2020. While the type of brush head you use can affect your dental hygiene, your routine is equally important. Dentists recommend brushing for 2 minutes twice and flossing once daily. That said, models on this list that oscillate, vibrate and/or indicate when it's time for a replacement can help you stay clean. Note, these options are not suitable for children under 3 years old. When users buy our independently chosen editorial recommendations, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.
1. Philips Sonicare DiamondClean
2. Oral-B CrossAction
3. Philips Sonicare C2 Plaque Control
Editor's Notes
February 09, 2020:
Research published by the Cochrane Oral Health Group concludes that electric toothbrushes are more effective at removing plaque and preventing gum diseases like gingivitis. A pro-tip is to look for options that include a seal of acceptance from the American Dental Association, an authority on testing the effectiveness of dental products. While all Oral-B and Philips Sonicare models are ADA Accepted, options from other brands like the Pro-Sys VarioSonic V130 Hybrid are also certified.
It's important to note the type of electric handle you have, as each brush can only be used with compatible bases. In this list, Mailink Replacement Electric, Oral-B Sensitive Gum Care, Oral-B Dual Clean and Oral-B CrossAction work with all Oral-B handles except for Sonic versions. Alternatively, Bernito Compatible, Philips Sonicare C2 Plaque Control and Philips Sonicare DiamondClean function with Philips Sonicare clip-on heads. The Fairywill Electric works with the Fairywill base and the Philips Sonicare E-Series requires a screw-on Sonicare handle, whereas the Pro-Sys VarioSonic V130 Hybrid can be used with its own branded handle or Burst Sonic ones.
A startling alarm was sent by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection in 2019 when they confiscated a shipment of over 20,000 counterfeit Oral-B heads. Other sources have also reported counterfeits in the Sonicare family. Fake models pose a risk to consumers as they may not have been made in sanitary conditions and may not function as well as the originals. If the packaging or quality of your selection doesn't look up to snuff, notify the company you purchased it from and request an authentic replacement.
The best choice will largely depend on your mouth and personal preferences. If you have easily agitated gums you may want to go with an extra soft selection like the Oral-B Sensitive Gum Care. If you are looking for a bargain then consider the Mailink Replacement Electric or the Bernito Compatible.
This list is specifically focused on toothbrush heads, if you want a completely new system, you may find useful insights in our list of electric toothbrushes. Similarly, if you struggle with receding gums, have a look at our ranking on electric toothbrushes for receding gums. As mentioned earlier, the selections listed on this page are not for young children. If you're seeking the best option for your child check out our post on toothbrushes for kids.
4. Oral-B Sensitive Gum Care
5. Pro-Sys VarioSonic V130 Hybrid
6. Oral-B Dual Clean
7. Philips Sonicare E-Series
8. Bernito Compatible
9. Fairywill Electric
10. Mailink Replacement Electric
Building PCs, remodeling, and cooking since he was young, quasi-renowned trumpeter Christopher Thomas traveled the USA performing at and organizing shows from an early age. His work experiences led him to open a catering company, eventually becoming a sous chef in several fine LA restaurants. He enjoys all sorts of barely necessary gadgets, specialty computing, cutting-edge video games, and modern social policy. He has given talks on debunking pseudoscience, the Dunning-Kruger effect, culinary technique, and traveling. After two decades of product and market research, Chris has a keen sense of what people want to know and how to explain it clearly. He delights in parsing complex subjects for anyone who will listen -- because teaching is the best way to ensure that you understand things yourself.