The Oral-B electric toothbrush line – All current models.

This page compares the features of each of the current Oral-B rechargeable electric toothbrush lines and their individual models. [Here’s a link to our similar review that covers the Sonicare product line.]

How this review is set up.

• For each line, we outline its basic features in a way that makes it possible to draw direct comparisons between it and other Oral-B lines and their models.
• We also point out special characteristics that some of the models have that make them especially unique in the Oral-B lineup.

Added notes and observations.

Also added throughout this page are mentions of our opinion about why each toothbrush might, or might not, make a particularly good choice or value.

There’s a lot of information here.

And you’ll get more out of this page if you read it in order. That’s because we tend to describe features more thoroughly, and provide links to further details about them, the first time they are mentioned in our text.

And also because this page points out important breakpoints in the Oral-B lineup that we feel are important in regard to brushing effectiveness and available options.

The current Oral-B rechargeable electric toothbrush models.

Which brushes do we cover?

The models we’ve chosen are those shown on the “HOME / ELECTRIC TOOTHBRUSH SERIES” page of the Oral-B website (USA) on July 19, 2021. Here they are listed according to price.

• Oral-B iO Series 9 – ($300)
• Oral-B iO Series 8 – ($250)
• Oral-B Genius X – ($220)
• Oral-B iO Series 7G – ($200)
• Oral-B Genius 9600 – ($200)
• Oral-B Genius 8000 – ($180)
• Oral-B iO Series 6 – ($150)
• Oral-B Smart 7000 – ($130)
• Oral-B Genius 6000 – ($120)
• Oral-B Pro 5000 – ($100)
• Oral-B Smart 3000 – ($90)
• Oral-B Smart 1500 – ($70)
• Oral-B Pro 1000 – ($50)
• Oral-B Pro 500 – ($30)

The above list of brushes represents these Oral-B toothbrush lines.

• iO Series
• Genius
• Smart
• Pro

About the prices we show.

The prices we show above are those we found listed on Oral-B’s website (see link above). On this page, we refer to them as MSRP’s (manufacturer’s suggested retail price), although Oral-B’s website left us unclear if that’s precisely the proper label for them or not.

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Our affiliate links can be used to shop for Oral-B toothbrushes on Amazon.com.

Disclosure:  Sales stemming from our affiliate links earn a commission for our website, although without any additional cost to you.

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How we’ve organized this page.

Except for the iO Series brushes that have been grouped together, the other models outlined on this page are listed in descending order of what we perceive to be their relative position (according to features) in the Oral-B lineup, and we make comments about them accordingly.

Check before you buy.

While we’ve done our best to double-check the accuracy of the information on this page, what’s exactly is included with each model can change.

We would think that most of the discrepancies you’ll find are relatively minor (number of brush heads, style of travel case, etc…). But if a specific feature or accessory is important to you, you absolutely must confirm on the packaging of the product you are considering that it is indeed included.

► Oral-B iO Series 9 electric toothbrush.

MSRP – $300

iO Series 9 features –

Number of brushing modes – 7  (Daily Clean, Whitening, Gum Care, Sensitive, Intense, Super Sensitive, and Tongue Clean). (Information about Oral-B brushing modes.)

Brush heads included – 4 total. (Style = Ultimate Clean.)

Note: The brush heads designed for use with the iO Series brushes cannot be used with other Oral-B models and vice versa. (Their attachment fitting is different.)

Top brushing action – 3D movement. | >40,000 pulses per min. | >8,800 oscillations per min. As compared to other Oral-B electrics = Top tier. (Details about Oral-B brushing actions.)

Note: With the iO Series, Oral-B has changed the system used to drive the brush head. And because of that change, the statistic we cite above are simply intended to relay that the brushing action of the iO models can be considered to be equal and likely superior to other Oral-B models.

Excessive brushing pressure indicator – Yes. (Smartring flashes red, brush movement slows down, a warning appears on the brushing app.) (More details about Oral-b pressure indicators.)

Note: With the iO Series Oral-B has introduced their Smart Pressure Sensor System. Different than with other Oral-B lines, this system tells you when you are using too much, not enough, and even the right amount of brushing pressure.

Brushing timer / Quadrant timer – Yes / Yes. (Handle pauses and stutters, Smartring flashes, phone app notifications.) (Details about Oral-b timers.)

Bluetooth connectivity/Smartphone app – Yes. Has Oral-B’s Artificial Intelligence feature that provides feedback about your brushing session. Real-time 3D brushing tracking/mouth mapping. Keeps a record of historic brushing sessions (day, week, month).

Note: It’s the iO 9 alone that features mouth mapping that shows your brushing progress in real-time. Other Oral-B’s, including the other iOs, can track where you have brushed. But the 9 keeps track of that information in real-time.

On-handle display – Yes. (Color Interactive Display.)

Battery type – Lithium-ion. (Greater than 2 weeks of brushing on 1 full charge.) (This type of battery offers some advantages.)

Charging units – Multi-voltage capability (110 to 240 volts). a) Magnetic charging stand.   b) Travel case with charging capabilities.

Travel case – Yes. (The toothbrush can be charged in this case.)

Colors – Black Onyx, White Alabaster, Rose Quartz.

Things to know about the iO Series 9 –

At the present time, the iO Series 9 toothbrush holds the position of being Oral-B’s top model (most advanced and full-featured). And as such, it, without question, can be considered an excellent toothbrush.

However, it also happens to be astoundingly expensive. So, in terms of looking for a toothbrush that is also a good value, we have a hard time recommending this model.

Please note: We have a page whose only focus is comparing and contrasting the iO Series models. You can find it here. Review: Oral-B iO Series toothbrushes.

► Oral-B iO Series 8, 7G, and 6 electric toothbrushes.

For the following iO models, we describe how their characteristics and features differ from the model 9.

MSRP –
Series 8 – $250 | Series 7G – $200 | Series 6 – $150 |

Brushing modes –
Series 8 – Daily Clean, Whitening, Gum Care, Sensitive, Intense, and Super Sensitive.
Series 7G and 6 – Daily Clean, Whitening, Gum Care, Sensitive, and Intense.

Brush heads included –
Series 8 – 3 total.
Series 7G – 1 total plus a brush head storage case.
Series 6 – 2 total.

Smartphone app – Unlike the iO Series 9, the app experience with models 8, 7G, and 6 does not include real-time brushing tracking/mouth mapping.

On-handle display –Yes. (Interactive Display)
Series 8 – color.
Series 7G and 6 – Black and white.

Charging units – Magnetic charging stand only. (Models 8, 7G, and 6 do not feature a charging travel case.)

Travel case – Yes.
Series 8 and 6 – Hard case, non-charging.
Series 7G – Travel pouch, non-charging.

Colors –
Series 8 – Black Onyx, White Alabaster, Violet Ametrine.
Series 7G – Black Onyx, White Alabaster
Series 6 – Lava Black, Grey Opal

FYI: As mentioned above, we have a page dedicated to comparing and contrasting the iO Series brushes. You can find it here. Review: Oral-B iO Series toothbrushes.

► Oral-B Genius X electric toothbrush.

Note: We feel we have also seen this toothbrush listed as the Oral-B 10000 Genius X on the Oral-B website. It’s our impression that this model is a functional equivalent of the regular Genius X. We find no significant differences in its list of features and anticipate that the cost difference between the two is simply due to the specific collection of additional accessories each comes with. (For example, the number of included brush heads.)

MSRP – $220

Features of the Genius X.

Bluetooth connectivity/Smartphone app – Yes. Includes Oral-B’s Artificial Intelligence feature that provides feedback about your brushing session but does not feature real-time 3D brushing tracking/mouth mapping (nor do any of the models below). Keeps a record of historic brushing sessions (day, week, month).

Battery type – Lithium-ion. (Greater than 2 weeks of brushing on 1 full charge.)

Charging units – Multi-voltage capability (110 to 240 volts). a) Standard charging stand. With some models, extra brush head storage is provided on the stand. Some models include a charger pouch (for storage or travel).   b) Travel case with charging capabilities.

Travel case – Yes. (The toothbrush can be charged in this case.) Some models come with a Beauty bag (in which your toothbrush and accessories can be placed).

Things to know about the Genius X –

A comparison of the Genius X’s features to other Oral-B models.

As mentioned above, the Genius X brushes offer multi-voltage charging capabilities. Some offerings include a “Beauty Bag” (a soft pouch your toothbrush and accessories can be placed in).

Additionally, these and the iO Series brushes are the only models in the Oral-B lineup that offer their Artificial Intelligence feature that provides feedback about your brushing session in regard to where you have successfully brushed or not.

Our opinion about smartphone brushing apps in general …

At this point, we think it’s important to point out that on our website’s pages we assign no importance or added value to choosing an app-capable toothbrush model. That’s because having this feature doesn’t make your brush work better. Instead, it’s a motivational tool and therefore to us falls under the category of just being a personal preference. (Not all purchasers will desire this type of intervention in their brushing experience.)

If you feel that having an app-enabled toothbrush is important to you, it’s essential to understand that the specific capabilities and functions of the app vary significantly among Oral-B models (lower-end models offer fewer and less sophisticated/refined features).

We make a point of noting these differences as we review each model on this page. This link provides more detail and opinion about Oral-B’s smartphone app.

► Oral-B Genius 9600 electric toothbrush.

MSRP – $200

Features of the Genius 9600.

Number of brushing modes – 6 (Daily Clean, Pro-Clean, Sensitive, Whitening, Gum Care, Tongue Cleaning).

Brush heads included – 3 total.

Top brushing action – 3D movement. | >40,000 pulses per min. | >8,800 oscillations per min. As compared to other Oral-B electrics = Top tier.

Excessive brushing pressure indicator – Yes. (Smartring flashes red, brush pulsations slow down, a warning appears on the brushing app.)

Brushing timer / Quadrant timer – Yes / Yes. (Handle pauses and stutters, Smartring flashes, phone app notifications.)

Bluetooth connectivity/Smartphone app – Yes. (Includes Position Detection technology feature.)

Battery type – Lithium-ion. (Greater than 2 weeks of brushing on 1 full charge.)

Charging units – Multi-voltage capability (110 to 240 volts). a) Standard charging stand. With some models, extra brush head storage is provided on the stand. Some models include a charger pouch (for storage or travel).   b) Travel case with charging capabilities.

Travel case – Yes. (The toothbrush can be charged in this case.)

Smartphone holder – (Wall or mirror mount.) Included.

Things to know about the Genius 9600 –

A comparison of the Genius 9600’s features with other Oral-B models.

As mentioned above, as you continue on down the Oral-B lineup you’ll find that there’s a general trend of reduced brushing app capability and refinement.

The Genius 9600 features what Oral-B terms their Position Detection technology, which seems to be their previous-generation, more-of-a-challenge-to-use, non-real-time brushing mapping feature.

With the Position Detection system, maintaining the proper alignment of your face with your smartphone’s camera is an important aspect of using the feature, which is why a suction-cup mirror/wall phone holder is included with models that have it.

It must also be pointed out that the 9600 is the last brush as we descend on down the Oral-B lineup that features a multi-voltage charging unit (110 to 240 volts).

► Oral-B Genius 8000 electric toothbrush.

MSRP – $180

Features of the Genius 8000 toothbrush line.

Number of brushing modes – 6 (Daily Clean, Pro-Clean, Sensitive, Whitening, Gum Care, Tongue Cleaning).

Brush heads included – 4 total.

Top brushing action – 3D movement. | >40,000 pulses per min. | >8,800 oscillations per min. As compared to other Oral-B electrics = Top tier.

Excessive brushing pressure indicator – Yes. (Smartring flashes red, brush pulsations slow down, a warning appears on the brushing app.)

Brushing timer / Quadrant timer – Yes / Yes. (Handle pauses and stutters, Smartring flashes, phone app notifications.)

Bluetooth connectivity/Smartphone app – Yes. (Includes Position Detection technology feature.)

Battery type – Lithium-ion. (Greater than 2 weeks of brushing on 1 full charge.)

Charging units – 120 volts only (OK for the USA). a) Standard charging stand. With some models, extra brush head storage is provided on the stand.   b) Travel case with charging feature.

Travel case – Yes. (The toothbrush can be charged in this case.)

Smartphone holder – (Wall or mirror mount.) Included.

Things to know about the Genius 8000 –

Having reached this point on this page, you may have noticed how similar the Genius models are. They have all featured 6 brushing modes, brushing timers and brushing pressure sensors, a charging travel case, and a lithium-ion battery.

In terms of differences, they have varied by way of how many replacement brush heads are included, the degree of sophistication of their integrated brushing app, and whether or not they come with a multi-voltage charger. And therefore, these are the things you need to focus on when making your decision between them.

A comparison of this brush’s features with other higher-end Oral-B models.

The distinguishing points about the Genius 8000 are that its smartphone app utilizes Oral-B’s (comparatively less desirable) Position Detection technology. And it comes with a standard (120 volts only) charger.

Multiple brushing modes – How important are they?

At this point, we’ll mention that our website takes a stance that may seem controversial to many readers. That is, for the vast majority of Oral-b owners, we feel that just using their toothbrush’s Daily Clean setting makes the best choice.

Daily Clean delivers Oral-B’s very effective hallmark “3D” brushing action (involving at least 40,000 pulses and 8,800 oscillations per minute) in sustained form. We’re under the impression that other brushing modes (with the exception noted below) are generally dumbed-down variants of this core action.

Of course, a corollary associated with holding that opinion is that having additional brushing modes offers limited, if any, benefit for most users. (We defend this stance on our Best Oral-B’s page, which seeks to sort out the best-value models.) And that means that we consider models that just feature Daily Clean versus it and any number of additional brushing modes to be fairly equivalent choices.

Other notable Oral-B brushing modes.

Despite what we’ve just stated, we do have the following to say:

As an alternative to Daily Clean, Pro-Clean mode, which according to brush user manuals operates the brush head at an even faster frequency, seems attractive to us.

As another brushing alternative, some models offer Deep Clean mode. A primary difference between it and Daily Clean is that it runs the brush for 3 minutes instead of just 2. Since we feel that most people don’t brush long enough, we like the idea of using Deep Clean. But of course, any Oral-B can just be used for longer. You don’t need this setting to do that.

We wouldn’t purchase a model just to get either of these modes but would likely tend to use them instead of Daily Clean if available.

While we do feel that what we state above is valid for the vast majority of Oral-B users, we can see how having Sensitive mode (a reduced-power, less-effective brushing action) might be needed for frail or debilitated brush users who can’t tolerate a full-power setting.

As a final point, many Oral-B models offer Tongue Cleaning mode. It would be our opinion that manual tongue cleaning is typically more effective.

► Oral-B Smart 7000 electric toothbrush.

As you’ll read below, there are several things about this brush that make it different (less featured) than all of the models discussed above.

MSRP – $130

Features of the Smart 7000.

Number of brushing modes: 6 – Daily Clean, Deep Clean, Sensitive, Whitening, Gum Care, Tongue Cleaning

Brush heads included: 3 total.

Top brushing action – 3D movement. | 40,000 pulses per min. | 8,800 oscillations per min. As compared to other Oral-B electrics = Top tier.

Excessive brushing pressure indicator: Yes. (Flashing light on the handle (red), brush pulsations slow down, a notification appears on the brushing app and SmartGuide unit.)

Brushing timer / Quadrant timer: Yes / Yes. (Handle pauses-and-stutters and light flashes (green), SmartGuide and phone app notifications.)

Bluetooth connectivity/Smartphone app – Yes. (No actual mouth-mapping features.)

Wireless SmartGuide unit: Yes. (This is basically an enhanced brushing timer that also indicates when you’re brushing too hard. Details about the SmartGuide.)

Battery: NiMH. (10 days of brushing on 1 full charge.)

Charging units – Standard charging stand, 120 volts only. Extra brush head storage is provided on the stand.

Travel case: Yes. (“Premium” travel case. No charging feature.)

Things to know about the Smart 7000 –

There are a host of issues that make this toothbrush different from all of the models discussed above.

A comparison of this brush’s features with other Oral-B models.

Smartphone app.

At this point in the Oral-B lineup, the brushing app features that are offered are quite basic. Specifically, the brush/app integration doesn’t have the mouth-mapping capabilities of Oral-B’s higher-end models.

The SmartGuide.

This is the only Oral-B model that comes with their stand-alone wireless SmartGuide unit. For people for whom using a smartphone app isn’t a good fit, this unit might be considered to be a less informative substitute (see link above for details).

Brushing modes.

The 7000 features Deep Clean mode. As discussed above, this mode is one that we consider a suitable alternative to using Daily Clean.

Battery.

This model features the less advantageous (as opposed to lithium-ion) NiMH type of battery.

Travel case.

The included travel case does not have charging capabilities.

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Our affiliate links can be used to shop for Oral-B toothbrushes on Amazon.com.

Disclosure:  Sales stemming from our affiliate links earn a commission for our website, although without any additional cost to you.

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► Oral-B Genius 6000 electric toothbrush.

MSRP – $140

Features of the Genius 6000 toothbrush line.

Number of brushing modes – 5 (Daily Clean, Pro-Clean, Sensitive, Whitening, Gum Care).

Brush heads included – 1 total.

Top brushing action – 3D movement. | >40,000 pulses per min. | >8,800 oscillations per min. As compared to other Oral-B electrics = Top tier.

Excessive brushing pressure indicator – Yes. (Smartring flashes red, brush pulsations slow down, a warning appears on the brushing app.)

Brushing timer / Quadrant timer – Yes / Yes. (Handle pauses and stutters, Smartring flashes, phone app notifications.)

Bluetooth connectivity/Smartphone app – Yes. (Includes Position Detection technology feature.)

Battery type – Lithium-ion. (Greater than 2 weeks of brushing on 1 full charge.)

Charging units – 120 volts only (OK for the USA). Standard charging stand that provides for extra brush head storage.

Travel case – Yes.

Smartphone holder – (Wall or mirror mount.) No.

Things to know about the Genius 6000 –

As compared to all of the toothbrushes above, with the Genius 6000 the number of brushing modes included has now dropped from 6 to 5. (Of course, the all-important Daily Clean mode is still included.) And also, with this model you just get one replacement brush head. But due to those tradeoffs, you get a lower price.

What you still do get is a Genius brush, a travel case, the advantages of a lithium-ion battery, and a smartphone app experience if you’re looking for that type of feedback.

What do we think of the Genius 6000?

Overall, we generally like the idea of the Genius 6000. If you want a Genius model, this one is relatively inexpensive (although there are less expensive, fairly equivalent toothbrushes yet discussed lower down on this page). But at the same time, you still get all of the features you need (and more) to do a good job of brushing.

Take note of this point.

It’s our opinion that as you drop ever further down the Oral-B lineup, the issues of build quality, product reliability, and user experience tend to become more of an issue. Suffice it to say, you simply can’t expect Oral-B brushes that cost 1/2 to 1/3 as much as their higher-end counterparts to be truly comparable devices.

We feel we notice this gradual transition less so with Oral-B products as opposed to Sonicare’s, but the saying “you get what you pay for,” just like with any other type of product, does apply. Our Selecting the best Oral-B’s page takes this issue into consideration.

► Oral-B Pro 5000.

Features of the Pro 5000.

Charging unit: Standard charging stand, 120 volts only. Holds additional brush heads.

Bluetooth connectivity/Smartphone app: Yes. (But lacks the mouth-mapping features of the highest-end Oral-B’s.)

Things to know about the Pro 5000 –

A comparison of this brush’s features with other Oral-B models.

This brush only features 5 brushing modes (but does have Daily Clean and Pro-Clean, discussed above). And it only offers the most primitive version of the Oral-B smartphone app.

It has the less preferred NiMH type of battery. Its charger only works with 120-volt systems. It does come with a travel case (the cheapest Oral-B model that does) but the case has no charging capabilities.

Our bottom line.

This is a model that has all of the features you need to do a good job of brushing and not all that much more, at a relatively inexpensive price. So in terms of value, we think the Pro 5000 makes a fairly reasonable choice.

► Oral-B Smart 3000 Electric Toothbrush.

Oral-B Smart 3000 toothbrush.

Features of the Smart 3000.

Brushing timer / Quadrant timer: Yes / Yes. (Handle pauses-and-stutters.)

Bluetooth connectivity/Smartphone app: Yes. (But lacks the mouth-mapping features of the highest-end Oral-B’s.)

Travel case: No.

Things to know about the Smart 3000 –

A comparison of this brush’s features with other Oral-B models.

As compared to other lower-end Oral-B’s, the Pro 3000 has 3 brushing modes, a NiMH battery, and does not come with a travel case.

Even though this toothbrush only features 3 brushing modes, we will point out that it still has two of those that we feel the average household would ever find a reason to need (Daily Clean, Sensitive – discussed above).

Our bottom line.

From the standpoint of trying to avoid buying a model that has more features than you really need, yet is still a good effective brush (which is the premise of our Picking out the Best (value) Oral-b) page, the Smart 3000 is a model that we feel should be considered.

► Oral-B Smart 1500 Electric Toothbrush.

Features of the Smart 1500.

Top brushing action: 3D movement. | >40,000 pulses per min. | >8,800 oscillations per min. As compared to other Oral-B electrics = Top tier.

Brush heads included: 1 total.

Battery type – Lithium-ion. (Greater than 2 weeks of brushing on 1 full charge.)

Charging unit: Standard charging stand, 120 volts only. No extra brush head storage is provided.

Excessive brushing pressure indicator: Yes. (Flashing light on the handle (red), brush pulsations slow down.)

Brushing timer / Quadrant timer: Yes / Yes. (Handle pauses-and-stutters.)

Bluetooth connectivity/Smartphone app: No.

Travel case: No.

Things to know about the Pro 1500 –

A comparison of this brush’s features with other Oral-B models.

The charging stand does not provide extra brush head storage. And the brush does not integrate with the Oral-B smartphone brushing app.

It does not come with a travel case but does feature a lithium-ion battery.

Our bottom line.

Since the Pro 1500 does feature Daily Clean, we consider it a contender in qualifying as a good low-end Oral-B choice. In fact, a very bare-bones model where you’re buying very little more than you absolutely need to do a good job of brushing.

Take Note – (A very important consideration.)

At this point, we’ve reached a very significant turning point in the Oral-b lineup of toothbrushes.

While the Pro 1000 discussed next does create Oral-B’s 3D brushing motion (a very important feature to have), its top vibratory rate is only 20,000 pulses per minute. This is essentially 1/2 (less in some cases) the top speed of all of the brushes we’ve discussed above. As such:

• The scrubbing efficiency of the brush is reduced (due to fewer total brush movements per minute).
• The toothbrush’s effectiveness is compromised too (because its lower vibratory rate creates less of a “non-contact” brushing effect, the phenomenon where a toothbrush can disrupt plaque beyond where its bristles actually touch).

And due to this design shortcoming, we would consider any of the Oral-B models above to make a vastly superior choice.

► Pro 1000 Electric Toothbrush

MSRP – $50

Features of the Pro 1000.

Number of brushing modes: 1 – Daily Clean

Top brushing action: 3D – 20,000 pulses/minute, 8,800 oscillations/minute. As compared to other Oral-B electrics = Mediocre.

Brush heads included: 1 total.

Battery: NiMH.

Charging unit: Standard charging stand, 120 volts only. No extra brush head storage is provided.

Excessive brushing pressure indicator: Yes. (Brush pulsates.)

Brushing timer / Quadrant timer: Yes / Yes. (The brush handle buzzes.)

Bluetooth connectivity/Smartphone app: No.

Travel case: No.

Things to know about the Pro 1000 –

A comparison of this brush’s features with other Oral-B models.

This model’s charging stand does not provide extra brush head storage. The brush does not integrate with the Oral-B smartphone brushing app. It does not come with a travel case.

And most importantly, this brush as compared to all of the Oral-B models above features an inferior brushing action.

Take Note:

The toothbrushes below only feature Oral-B’s 2D brushing motion. This means they create absolutely no “non-contact” brushing effect (see link above). We consider this a significant disadvantage.

If for some reason you end up choosing one of these models, don’t do so in the sense that you think you’re buying a modern-design Oral-B electric because you’re not.

► Pro 500 Electric Toothbrush

MSRP – $30

Features of the Pro 500.

Number of brushing modes: 1 – Daily Clean

Top brushing action: 2D – 7,600 rotating movements. As compared to other Oral-B electrics = Subpar.

Brush heads included: 1 total.

Battery: NiMH.

Charging unit: Standard charging stand.

Excessive brushing pressure indicator: No.

Brushing timer / Quadrant timer: Yes / No. (In-handle timer.)

Travel case: No.

Things to know about the Pro 500 –

A comparison of this brush’s features with other Oral-B models.

As compared to other low-end Oral-B’s, this brush does not feature an excessive brushing pressure indicator or a quadrant brushing timer.

And most importantly, and even as compared to the Pro 1000, the brushing action that this model creates is substantially inferior.

Vitality (Floss Action) Electric Toothbrush

We didn’t see the Vitality listed as a current model when composing this page. However, since we had this review already prepared, we decided to go ahead and include it. We did that mainly so readers will understand that we do not consider this a suitable toothbrush to purchase.

MSRP – $30

Features of the Vitality line.

Number of brushing modes: 1 – Daily Clean

Top brushing action: 2D – 7,600 rotating movements. As compared to other Oral-B electrics = Subpar.

Brush heads included: 1 total.

Battery: NiMH.

Charging unit: Standard charging stand.

Excessive brushing pressure indicator: No.

Brushing timer / Quadrant timer: Yes / No.

Travel case: No.

Things to know about the Vitality line –

A comparison of this brush’s features with other Oral-B models.

There are quite a few “no’s” associated with this brush: No pressure sensor, no quadrant timer, no travel case, no Bluetooth/Smartphone App capability, no extra brush head storage.

But simply due to its ineffectual brushing action (as compared to all Oral-B’s except the Pro 500 which shares the same subpar brushing action), we would not consider purchasing a Vitality brush.

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Our affiliate links can be used to shop for Oral-B toothbrushes on Amazon.com.

Disclosure:  Sales stemming from our affiliate links earn a commission for our website, although without any additional cost to you.

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Further details about Oral-B rechargeable toothbrush features –

The remainder of this page provides additional information about many of the Oral-B toothbrush features mentioned above. However, it’s important for you to understand that not all models come with all of them.

Our text above outlines which features you can expect to come with each model line. However, even then, it’s important for you to examine the packaging of the specific toothbrush you plan to purchase to confirm that the features you desire are in fact included.

Oral-b features covered on this page.

• The Smartphone App – The App provides current and historic information about your brushing sessions, so to help make them as productive as possible.
• The wireless SmartGuide – A stand-alone unit that provides real-time information about your brushing session, for those who prefer not to use the phone app.
• Additional indicators – The 360 Smartring / Light Ring. Most rechargeable models feature a brushing/quadrant timer and excessive brushing pressure indicator.
• Information about Oral-B charging stands, battery recharging (including best practices), and battery types and options for replacement.

1) The Smartphone app / Bluetooth connectivity.

What does having Bluetooth connectivity do?

The Oral-B Bluetooth feature provides a means by which your toothbrush can communicate with the Oral-B app when installed on your smartphone (iPhone or Android). The app, in turn, can give you feedback about your current brushing session and past history. The app is free and can be downloaded from the usual places (iTunes, Google Play).

Oral-B would suggest that the phone app helps to motivate your brushing habits, as well as improve your session’s effectiveness and safety.

What type of details does the app report?

The information shown on your phone can include (depending on the model):  a) The brushing timer.   b) Quadrant indicator and timer.   c) Toothbrush mode setting.   d) Excessive pressure warning.   e) Brush position detection (mouth mapping).

Note: A lot of this information is a duplication (albeit in a nicer visual form) of what your toothbrush already indicates to you via LED’s, sound, flashing lights, or vibration.

Smartphone app features – (Varies according to model.)

• With Oral-B’s that are enabled with their Artificial Intelligence feature, motion sensors recognize your brushing style, track where you have brushed (shown in the app), and then give you feedback about your results and pointers on how to improve.
• Oral-B’s highest-end models feature their state-of-the-art real-time mouth mapping capability where your brushing progress (the areas where you have brushed) is illustrated in the app during your brushing session (instead of after you have finished).
• More primitive Oral-B’s feature their Position Detection system that uses facial recognition technology to guide your brushing session, zone by zone (UL, UR, LL, LR, UF, LF), thus helping you maximize your brushing effectiveness. (This seems to be the older, previous-generation version of Oral-B’s brushing/mouth-mapping feature.)
• Pre-programmed routines can be selected that are designed to help you attain your brushing goals (Fresh Breath, Plaque Fighter, Whitening, Gum Health, and Ortho Care).
• The app can customize your toothbrush’s brushing timer by configuring additional seconds for those areas of your mouth (quadrants) that require extra cleaning.
• The app displays your brushing history (number of sessions, session duration, assorted other statistics) over time (days, weeks, months). Sessions less than 30 seconds aren’t included in the tally.
• The app can be configured to remind you to floss and brush your tongue after each brushing session. It can also remind you when it’s time to replace your brush head.
• To help with entertainment and productivity while you brush, it displays news headlines, your calendar, and weather information.

Which models have which app capability?

Generally speaking, the level of sophistication of the app experience you get increases as you rise up within the Oral-B lineup. (Model price is a pretty good indication of this.)

We make note of the differences in app capability between models on our All Oral-B toothbrushes page.

Is the Smartphone app a valuable feature to have?

The cons.

We see the brushing app strictly as a motivational tool. Nothing about it makes your toothbrush function better. Instead, it helps you, the brusher, function more optimally. There is no question that you can brush just as effectively with or without the app if you will.

The pros.

On the other side of the coin, if you need motivation or instruction when performing your brushing efforts, or if monitoring your (or possibly your child’s) brushing performance over time is important to you, then having the app may make a significant improvement in your brushing outcome. And if that’s the case, it’s wonderful that such an option exists and you should seek a model that features it.

2) The wireless SmartGuide unit.

The Oral-B SmartGuide is a stand-alone unit that communicates wirelessly with your toothbrush. It’s not a control or a touch screen, it simply reports information to you via an LCD display.

Fewer and fewer models now come with this feature. For all practical purposes, it’s been replaced by the functionality of the Bluetooth connectivity/Smartphone app feature discussed above.

Smartguide features.

• When the toothbrush is in use, the unit displays:

  a) The brushing timer.   b) The quadrant indicator (the dashed circle on the unit’s screen).   c) An excessive brushing pressure indicator.   d) The brushing mode in use.

• When the toothbrush is not in use the unit serves as a clock and shows the time of day.

Oral-B Smartguide unit.

Additional details.

• The brushing timer can be set to count either up or down.

  After counting down, the timer will automatically reverse and start counting back up. That way if you decide to brush for longer, you can keep track of how long.

• The unit displays a circular quadrant indicator. This helps you to keep track of which 1/4th of your mouth you should be brushing at the moment.
• The Smartguide is not rechargeable like your toothbrush. It runs on 2 disposable AAA batteries. Oral-B states that they should keep the unit running for about 1 year.

Is the Smartguide an important feature to have?

It’s easy enough to dismiss a true “need” for having the SmartGuide unit. That’s because so much of the information it relays is already signaled to you by your toothbrush via various sounds, lights, or vibrations.

Having said that, some users may find that having this information relayed to them visually is beneficial.

• We do see how being able to track how long you’ve brushed for after the 2-minute timer has lapsed could be useful.
• And if someone who brushes via quadrants actually has trouble keeping track of which one they should be on, the “quadrant circle” would be a help too.
• As a point of interest, Oral-B actually did a study to determine how the use of a remote timer (the SmartGuide) affected users’ brushing habits.

  They determined that using one encouraged users to brush for at least 2 minutes and to maintain a stricter brushing regimen.

  We will point out however that the study period only ran for 30 days. A time frame during which we’d expect that the novelty of using the Smartguide hadn’t worn off yet.

Using a “connected” Oral-b toothbrush on airplanes.

As described above, some Oral-b models have Bluetooth/wireless capability so a connection can be made with other devices (smartphone/Smartguide unit).

Airlines have varying restrictions on the use of wireless devices on flights. Some of them ban their use, others place restrictions on the type of device that’s permitted and/or when such units can be used.

• When your toothbrush is switched off it emits no wireless signal, so it poses no conflict with existing rules.
• When your toothbrush is turned on, its wireless transmitter turns on too. And for this reason, the use of your brush during your flight may or may not be permitted, depending on your airline’s rules.
• Check the user manual of your brush to determine if the wireless transmissions generated by your model can be deactivated. If so it can then be used (such as on your flight) without the emission of signals.

  (With some Oral-b models you hold the on/off and mode button down for 3 seconds until
  the radio transmission display/icon on the brush body goes off. Repeat the process to turn the signals back on.)

3) The Oral-b 360 Smartring / Light Ring.

The Smartring is a flashing LED indicator light. With more recent toothbrush lines, Oral-B has begun referring to this feature simply as the “Light Ring.”

The “360” term associated with this light refers to the fact that it encircles the entire circumference of the brush handle (it’s found right below where the brush head attaches), and therefore can be visualized from all angles.

What does it do?

The Smartring is used to signal the following functions:

• Excessive brushing pressure has been detected (red light).
• That another 1/4th of your brushing timer’s setting has elapsed. Also that the brushing timer’s total duration has ended. (The default color of this feature is white, although other colors can be chosen via the smartphone brushing app.)
• That your toothbrush has paired (via a Bluetooth connection) with your toothbrush (blue light).

The default color of the Smartring can be personalized to any one of 12 different options. Choosing to do so is just decorative in nature.

4) Oral-B brushing and quadrant timers.

All of the toothbrushes making up our all-models list come with a brushing timer.

• For the most part, this is a 2-minute one. (When a brush is set to Deep Clean brushing mode, the timer extends to 3 minutes. Only selected models feature this mode.)
• As the timer runs, its quadrant feature signals 30-second intervals (45 seconds when set on Deep Clean.) (The Vitality models don’t offer a quadrant timer.) See below for how this is used during brushing.

  The signal that’s used varies by model but is typically a pause-and-stutter coming from the toothbrush handle. For models equipped with the Smartring feature, its light flashes at both quadrant and end of timer intervals.

• Unlike some other brands of toothbrushes, once an Oral-B’s brushing timer has lapsed the brush continues to run (it doesn’t automatically shut off). That means you can seamlessly continue brushing for longer if you want. This is a nice feature.

How to use the quadrant timer.

• Imagine your teeth in terms of quadrants (e.g. upper right, lower right, lower left, upper left).
• As you brush, when each 30-second quadrant signal sounds off, you advance to the next quadrant in your brushing plan, brushing it until the timer signals you to advance again.
• There’s nothing really special about brushing this way. It just helps to ensure that you don’t overlook brushing any one area for an adequate amount of time.

Customizing the quadrant timer with the Bluetooth/Smartphone app.

The brushing/quadrant timer of toothbrush models that feature the Bluetooth/Smartphone app can be extended (see above).

5) Oral-B pressure monitoring features.

What you’ll find.

Mid and higher-end Oral-B electric toothbrushes feature an excessive brushing pressure indicator. While the specific design of this feature varies by model, in general, when your brush detects that excessive pressure is being used:

• It signals via a light, sound and/or makes a change in your brush’s brushing action that you’ll feel or hear.
• Toothbrushes equipped with the Smartguide or Bluetooth/Smartphone app features also show a signal on their screens.

The Smart Pressure Sensor System.

This is Oral-B’s most sophisticated pressure detection system and it comes as a feature on their iO Series toothbrushes. It differs from the systems found on other models by way of the fact that it notifies you not only when you are using too much brushing pressure but also too little or just the right amount.

The system’s primary mode of communication is via the LED Light Ring located at the top of the brush’s handle (right at the base of the installed brush head).

This light shines white when you use too little pressure, red when excessive pressure is detected, or green if you’re using the proper amount of brushing force. (We explain more about this feature on the iO Series brushes here.)

Is having a pressure sensor necessary?

Brushing with excessive pressure can cause tooth wear, gum tissue abrasions, and theoretically even gum recession. It will also tend to wear out brush heads prematurely.

In regard to gum recession, studies have shown that the use of either Sonicare (McCracken) or Oral-b (Rosema) powered brushes do not place the user at risk of damage. And for that reason, we don’t favor one brand over the other, despite the fact that many Sonicare products do not offer this same type of warning system.

▲ Section references – McCracken, Rosema

6) Oral-b recharging stands.

• All models come with a basic circular charging unit that plugs into an electrical outlet (the brush sits directly on top of this device). It’s small enough that it packs easily for travel.
• More expensive Oral-b’s come with a plastic tray designed to fit around the basic unit so to hold additional brush heads.
• Some high-end models come with a combined travel case/charging unit. The case can also be used to simultaneously charge your cell phone.

7) Recharging your Oral-B.

How it works.

Oral-B rechargeable toothbrushes charge by way of induction. This means you simply set them on their charging stand, no direct connection is made (like plugging in a wire).

Battery level indicators.

All Oral-B’s feature a battery charge indicator, although its design (level of sophistication) varies by model.

• Some simply indicate that the unit has enough charge to perform (or not).
• Others give you an idea of the actual level of charge the brush still holds. This may be an important feature for people who want to travel without taking their charger along.

Best practices.

Oral-B states that you can help to ensure that your toothbrush’s battery will maintain maximum recharging capacity by using it straight through (multiple sessions, no charging in between) until it’s fully discharged. They suggest doing this at least once every six months.

Note: Many models are 120 volts only.

It bears mentioning that the charging unit that comes with mid-range to low-end Oral-B toothbrushes is typically one that’s just been designed to be used with the type of electrical system that predominates in the country/area in which it was originally sold.

That means that USA/Canada models are intended for use only with 110-120 volt systems. Units bought in other countries (such as those in Europe) are typically designed just for 220 – 240-volt systems. (In comparison, most Sonicare products feature multi-voltage charging units.)

Multi-voltage chargers.

Some high-end Oral-B models come with a multi-voltage (110-240 volt) charging unit. In most cases, the needed transformer has been integrated into a power cord that has come packaged with the brush. The cord is then plugged into either the toothbrush’s standard charging base or else its charging-capable travel case, depending on which you intend to use.

How to check.

The specific voltage system your toothbrush charger has been designed to work with should be printed on its base.

• Those specifically marked “100 – 240 volts” can be used globally without the need for a voltage converter. Although it’s likely that you will need a “converter plug” so you can physically plug into the wall socket you’re utilizing.
• All others will require the use of a voltage converter unit to operate on any electrical system other than the one they were designed for.

8) Battery types / Replacement.

a) Oral-b rechargeable batteries.

Higher-end Oral-B models typically feature a lithium-ion battery. Lower-end brushes typically have a NiMH one. The lithium-ion version offers the advantage of longer, more consistent battery life and faster charging.

b) Oral-b’s aren’t designed for battery replacement.

The design chosen by Oral-B for their rechargeable toothbrushes is one where the batteries housed inside aren’t intended to be replaced by the consumer (at least not in a simple, straightforward way). That means battery failure generally correlates with unit death.

(Note: Oral-B does sell “battery operated” toothbrushes, meaning models that run on replaceable off-the-shelf disposable batteries. Our website doesn’t recommend the use of these types of units because the brushing action they create is subpar compared to that of Oral-B’s rechargeables.)

Battery replacement options.

We have run across some websites and eBay stores that appear to offer replacement rechargeable batteries for various Oral-B models. While we have no first-hand experience in dealing with them, what they offer seems to fall into one of the following two categories.

• Some sites appear to just sell the replacement batteries themselves, implying that you the consumer perform the repair task on your own.

  Typically the website will provide instructions. We’ve also run across some YouTube.com videos that demonstrate how to perform this procedure. At a minimum, you’ll need to be proficient with using a soldering iron to make the switch.

• Other companies state they offer battery replacement as a service. You ship your inoperable toothbrush to them. They make the repair, check the outcome, and then return it to you.

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If you’re looking for more to read about Oral-B rechargeable toothbrushes, we recommend this page: What Oral-B models offer the best value (features and function vs. price)?