A rechargeable sonic toothbrush is an electric toothbrush that uses sonic technology to remove significantly more plaque than can be achieved by using a standard electric toothbrush or manual brushing. Philips developed and patented the first sonic toothbrush and still sets the standard with their Sonicare® line. Sonicare® brand toothbrushes have been used in the vast majority of clinical studies that have been done on sonic dental care.
Electric toothbrushes have been around since the 1950s and commercialized in the 60s. Originally designed for people with limited motor skills, the oscillating head was intended to provide a healthy brushing experience regardless of the abilities of the user. Today’s electric toothbrushes generally provide between 4500 and 7000 strokes per minute, compared to hand brushing's 300 strokes per minute. A rechargeable sonic toothbrush, however, is in a class all its own with upwards of 30,000 strokes per minute.
The extremely high rate of oscillation is what creates the unique benefits found only with a sonic toothbrush. All toothbrushes clean the surface of teeth by bristle scrubbing, but the ultrasonic waves created by a sonic toothbrush create fluid dynamics that have been clinically proven to reach beyond the bristles. Saliva and toothpaste get whipped into a bubbly oxygenated froth that penetrates between teeth and into the gum line, dislodging hidden plaque and the destructive acids and bacteria it supports. Studies show up to twice the amount of plaque removed from between teeth, using a Sonicare® toothbrush, with even more dramatic results on the surface of teeth and below the gum line.
According to virtually every clinical study performed on sonic technology over the past 20+ years, sonic brushing far superior to manual or electric toothbrushes. A rechargeable sonic toothbrush can improve the health of gums and teeth, reducing periodontal problems like gingivitis, bleeding, and tooth decay due to plaque.
Sonicare® toothbrushes are available in various styles and feature super-soft bristles with a unique contour to maximize surface contact. Bristles are also angled precisely and the tips are rounded for gentle cleaning. Clinical studies have found that Sonicare® brushing does not negatively impact enamel or dentin, and is no more abrasive than manual brushing. Sonic brushing is also found to more effectively reduce stains, making for a brighter smile.
If you’d prefer to use the patented technology that started sonic dental care, an affordable rechargeable sonic toothbrush made by Philips, the Sonicare® Essence 5300, costs less than $100 US Dollars (USD). Oral B makes an even more affordable rechargeable sonic toothbrush. Other brands are also available. Sonic brushes will cost more than manual or electric toothbrushes, but over the long haul a sonic toothbrush can very possibly pay for itself hundreds of times over in saved dental costs.