I used a hand-me-down electric toothbrush for many years but switched to manual when it stopped working. After doing a bit of searching though, I became convinced that electric toothbrushes give you a much better clean.


I’ve been very happy with the Philips Sonicare ProtectiveClean 5100 I landed on. The “pressure sensor” feature comes in handy — it buzzes when you press too hard — but everything else is pleasantly minimal and budget-friendly. The recent high-end “smart” toothbrushes are the last thing I want.


I also endorse the sensitive type S replacement brush heads; I’ve been told by dentists that the default toothbrush firmness is more than anyone needs.