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The best toothbrushes for healthy gums and teeth, tested and reviewed

Electric toothbrushes, manual toothbrushes, travel toothbrushes and kid-friendly options — we tested more than 15 different toothbrushes to select our favorites.

The best toothbrushes for healthy gums and teeth, tested and reviewed

Ever think about how much time you spend brushing your teeth? Spoiler alert: It's about 1,500 minutes a year if you brush for the recommended two minutes, twice daily! While brushing technique is crucial for optimal results, the toothbrush you choose is also important. So, it’s worth ensuring you're using the best toothbrush — it can be a game-changer for your dental health.

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"A good toothbrush should have bristles that are firm enough to clean effectively but soft enough to avoid damage. The handle should be comfortable to hold and maneuver," says Chelsea Perry, DMD, founder of Elite Dental Studio in Westborough, Mass. "For electric toothbrushes, look for features like a timer to ensure you're brushing for the recommended two minutes and pressure sensors to prevent brushing too hard."

The thing is, it's easy to grab any ol' toothbrush off the rack in the grocery store and hope for great results, but unless you're doing side-by-side comparisons, it's hard to really assess which toothbrush is best. That's why we did the side-by-side comparisons for you. In addition to consulting dentists, oral hygienists and members of the American Dental Association (ADA) to get a good idea of what to look for in a high-quality toothbrush, we also meticulously reviewed user feedback and personally tested each toothbrush included on this list (and even some that didn't make the cut). Here you'll be able to discover the best toothbrush for every need: the best electric toothbrush, best manual toothbrush, best kids' toothbrush, best sustainable toothbrush and best travel toothbrush, all at a variety of budgets.

Cost: $8 | Type: Manual | Bristle options: Soft, medium, hard | Head size: Regular | Color options: Black with red, yellow, blue or purple | Special features: Built-in tongue and cheek scraper

If you're searching for that just-from-the-dentist clean with a manual toothbrush, the Colgate Advanced 360 Plus Floss Tip is your best bet. The magic lies in its soft, tapered bristles that can dive deep between teeth and around the gum line, ensuring a thorough clean. One standout feature is the built-in tongue and cheek scraper, which left my mouth feeling exceptionally fresh, allowing me to forgo a separate tongue-scraping tool.

The price point is fantastic for those with big families like mine, especially with the convenient two-pack option. Plus, the variety of color combinations ensures no confusion about which brush belongs to whom.

Overall, the Colgate Advanced 360 Plus Floss Tip is a stellar choice for anyone wanting a superior clean without breaking the bank.

Pros
  • Comes in a two-pack
  • Tapered bristles reach easily between teeth
  • Ergonomic handle
Cons
  • Only one head size
  • Soft bristle option may be too hard for some
$8 at Walmart

Cost: $380 | Type: Electric | Bristle options: Soft | Head size: Regular | Color options: Champagne, pink, limited edition pink, midnight blue | Special features: Anti-scrub and pressure sensors

Yes, our best overall electric toothbrush pick is pricey, but it's also one of the most incredible toothbrushes I’ve ever used. "Incredible" isn't a word you'd usually associate with a toothbrush, but once you experience what the Philips Sonicare 9900 Prestige can do, you'll understand why.

This electric toothbrush leverages an AI-powered app to suggest optimal brushing duration, coverage and pressure. Each session is automatically recorded, helping you monitor your teeth and gum health over time.

I'm often guilty of brushing too hard, so I particularly appreciate the sensor light that alerts you if you're applying too much pressure. After using it for six weeks, I've noticed a significant improvement in my teeth and gum health. And as a bonus, the travel case is chic and portable enough to fit into any cosmetic bag.

One 5-star Amazon reviewer noted, "The toothbrush is phenomenal but pricey. If you don't mind spending the money, or find it on sale, you won't be disappointed in the performance of the toothbrush. It does an excellent job at cleaning your teeth and removing stains."

Pros
  • Long-lasting battery life
  • AI-powered app helps monitor usage
  • Proven to remove 20 times more plaque than manual toothbrushes
Cons
  • Pricey
$380 at Amazon
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$400 at Kohl's$380 at Target

Cost: $10 | Type: Manual | Bristle options: Soft, medium, hard | Head size: Compact | Color options: Yellow, orange, purple | Special features: Quad grip handle

Sometimes you need a reliable toothbrush that won't break the bank. Whether for your travel kit, a backup at the office or to save a few bucks without compromising on quality, the GUM Technique Deep Clean Toothbrush is your best bet.

GUM continues to be ranked as the number one brand by dental professionals, which is why you often see it in those post-dentist goodie bags. Naturally, the GUM Technique Deep Clean Toothbrush tops our list for the best budget manual toothbrush. It delivers a solid clean at a great price.

One happy Amazon reviewer said, "These were given out at my dentists office and feel they are the best brushes for cleaning my teeth and gum line. They are sturdy enough to deep clean but gentle on the gums. I won't use anything else."

The key feature is the quad-grip handle, designed to help you hold the brush at the optimal 45-degree angle, which Perry explains is essential for achieving the best results. "Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gums and use gentle, circular motions," she advises. "Make sure to brush all surfaces of your teeth— the outer surfaces, inner surfaces and chewing surfaces. Don’t forget to brush your tongue to remove bacteria and keep your breath fresh."

For an affordable toothbrush that doesn’t skimp on performance, the GUM Technique Deep Clean Toothbrush is a standout choice.

Pros
  • Tapered bristles for better reach
  • Quad-grip handle ensures the perfect brushing angle
  • Compact head size is good for smaller mouths
Cons
  • Bristles may be too abrasive
$10 at Amazon

Cost: $13 | Type: Electric | Bristle options: Soft | Head size: Regular | Special features: Colorware bristles

If you don’t have much to spend but still prefer the deep clean of an electric toothbrush, the Spinbrush Pro+ does the job.

This wallet-friendly, ADA-recommended toothbrush delivers a deep clean that rivals more expensive models. It features double-action spinner and scrubber brushes that effectively remove plaque between teeth and around the gum line.

Reviewers love this brush. One said, "I switched to another brand and missed this more than I want to admit. This gets my teeth cleaner and brighter. I will never switch again. Great price."

The Colorware bristles are a handy feature for those who often forget to change their toothbrush heads on time. They fade to remind you when it's time for a replacement. I also appreciated that this toothbrush is cruelty-free and completely BPA-free.

The only downside is that removing the base to replace the batteries can be tricky, a common issue noted in user reviews. However, the convenience of using regular AAA batteries instead of hard-to-find watch batteries is a significant plus.

Pros
  • Low price point
  • Color-changing bristles fade over time to remind you to replace the brush head
Cons
  • Hard-to-remove base complicates battery replacement
$12 at Amazon
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$11 at Walgreens

Cost: $20 for handle and 3 brush heads | Type: Manual | Bristle options: Soft, medium | Head size: Regular | Color options: green, pink, arctic blue, purple, ocean blue, gold, black | Special features: Built-in tongue and cheek scraper, recyclable brush heads

Think of the Nada Toothbrush as you think of reusable razors — the high-quality, heavy aluminum handle is intended to be kept indefinitely, but the brush heads can be removed and disposed of after they've run their course (about every three months). But here's the innovative (and sustainable) part — instead of chucking the brush heads in the trash, you place them in Nada's pre-addressed envelopes to be sent back to the company and recycled into plastic pellets. 

The handle and the brush heads hold their own in terms of quality. The heads include a tongue scraper on the back and ultra-fine, soft bristles to provide an effective clean. The handle is heavy and lies flat, so you don't have to worry about it rolling over if you set it on your sink. It also rinses clean, so you won't get gross toothpaste buildup. 

You can choose from a variety of handle colors, and the brand also offers a kids' version. The only downside? Having to pay the postage to send the brush heads back for recycling. It's a small price to pay, honestly, but it's one extra step that could be considered an annoyance. 

Pros
  • High-quality, heavy handle —?feels solid to use
  • Initial brush purchase includes 3 brush heads
  • Brush heads are intended to be sent back and recycled
Cons
  • Have to pay for postage to send brush heads back
$20 at Nada

Cost: $92 | Type: Electric | Bristle options: Medium, soft | Head size: Compact | Color options: Midnight fern, morning waves, sea mist, winter fern | Special features: Mirror mount for easy storage

Many electric toothbrushes are wasteful, using excessive plastic and few reusable parts. The SURI Sustainable Sonic Toothbrush, however, is crafted from plant-based materials and offers an eco-friendly way to maintain oral hygiene.

An Amazon reviewer commented, "Not only is this amazing toothbrush more environmentally sustainable, it even works better! Seriously! I was a bit concerned that maybe I would be sacrificing function for the sustainability features. But, nope, not even the slightest. The vibrations seem even stronger than the conventional sonic toothbrushes I had before. And, it is much quieter than the conventional ones too."

Despite its smaller motor, this toothbrush delivers powerful vibrations, claiming to remove up to 300 times more plaque than a manual toothbrush.

What truly sets this toothbrush apart are its two cleaning modes: one for daily cleaning and another for polishing. I appreciated having the option to switch between the two, using the polishing mode once a week for an extra shine. Plus, the company offers free recycling for used brush heads, a fantastic way to contribute to environmental conservation — just remember to take advantage of the service!

Pros
  • Long-lasting battery
  • Made from sustainable materials
  • Two cleaning modes
Cons
  • Some may prefer stronger cleaning vibrations
  • Excessive packaging for an eco-friendly product
  • May be unsuitable for sensitive teeth and gums
$92 at Amazon

Cost: $125 | Type: Electric | Bristle options: Soft | Head size: Small | Color options: White, black | Special features: Three gum-friendly cleaning modes

The right toothbrush is crucial for those with sensitive teeth and gums. The Oral B Sensitive Gum and Teeth rechargeable electric toothbrush is an excellent choice, offering three settings: daily cleaning, gum care and sensitive mode.

Like the Sonicare 9900 Prestige, this toothbrush features an AI-powered app to guide your brushing routine, which is especially beneficial for those with gum disease. The built-in 30-second timer signals when to move to the next quadrant of your mouth, ensuring optimal brushing technique. This feature, combined with its gentle yet effective cleaning modes, makes it ideal for anyone needing extra care for their teeth and gums.

While the storage case is bulkier than some other portable electric toothbrushes, the other features compensate for this minor inconvenience.

Pros
  • Three cleaning modes
  • Built-in brushing timer
  • Comes with a replacement toothbrush head
Cons
  • Pricey
  • Bulky storage case
$115 at Amazon

Cost: $64 | Type: Electric | Bristle options: Soft | Head size: Compact | Color options: Satin and metallic finishes | Special features: Wireless charging

A whitening toothbrush can make a significant difference if you're a coffee or tea lover or just looking to brighten your smile. The AquaSonic VIBE series Ultra Whitening Electric Toothbrush is an excellent choice for anyone wanting to whiten their teeth and remove stains effectively.

My husband tested this toothbrush, and as a big coffee drinker, he noticed a difference in his teeth's whiteness after just a week. The ADA-backed claim of preventing and reducing gingivitis was another draw for us, given his susceptibility to gum issues.

This toothbrush offers excellent value as well, as the kit comes with seven replacement heads, which should last a single user more than a year. We also appreciated the wireless charging feature, which is perfect for those with limited counter space. However, the on/off button is quite sensitive, and we did find it buzzing in the cabinet a couple of times after getting jostled.

Despite this minor issue, the AquaSonic VIBE Series delivers on its promise of a whiter, brighter smile, making it an excellent choice for those focused on teeth whitening.

Pros
  • Wireless charging
  • Seven replacement heads supplied
  • Ultra slim profile
Cons
  • Brush head may be too small for some
  • Very sensitive "on" button
$64 at Walmart

Cost: $12 | Type: Manual | Bristle options: Soft, medium | Head size: Regular | Color options: White, silver, blue, purple | Special features: Cross-action bristles

Plaque is the unsightly, sticky film that forms on your teeth when you do a less-than-stellar job at brushing. It's full of bacteria and is a cause of halitosis, or bad breath. The Oral-B CrossAction All-in-One manual toothbrush is a top choice for those serious about combating plaque.

This toothbrush is designed explicitly for deep plaque removal. After the first use, I noticed the smoothness of my teeth, and the built-in cheek and tongue scraper contributed to fresher breath. The bristles effectively reached those hard-to-access areas, ensuring a comprehensive clean.

While some reviews mentioned the bulky handle, I appreciated the heavier feel, which provided a more comfortable and controlled grip. Additionally, the price is unbeatable — less than $12 for a pack of four toothbrushes.

Overall, the Oral-B CrossAction All-in-One manual toothbrush is a solid option to reduce plaque and improve oral hygiene.

Pros
  • Budget-friendly
  • Gentle on teeth and gums
  • Tongue and cheek scrapers on backside of brush head
Cons
  • Handle may be too bulky for some
$12 at Walmart
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$13 at Amazon$18 at CVS Pharmacy

Cost: $29 | Type: Electric | Bristle options: Soft | Head size: Small | Color options: Blue, white, pink | Special features: Brushing timers

Getting kids to brush their teeth can be challenging, but the Philips Sonicare for Kids makes it fun and engaging. My 10-year-old son loved this toothbrush because it turned brushing into a game rather than a chore. With its advanced AI-powered app, he learned proper brushing techniques while guided by a cute, fuzzy avatar named Sparkly.

This toothbrush is safe and gentle on his gums yet effective at reaching those hard-to-brush spots. The built-in brushing timer ensures he brushes for the appropriate amount of time and spends the right amount of time on each quadrant of his mouth.

One thing to note is the importance of rinsing the brush thoroughly after each use. Some reviews mentioned mold growth between the brush head and handle if not adequately rinsed and dried. However, we didn't encounter this issue.

Pros
  • Budget-friendly
  • Brushing timers
  • Gentle on gums
  • AI-powered app helps guide brushing
Cons
  • Potential issues pairing toothbrush with app
  • If not rinsed properly, the space between the brush head and handle can get moldy
$29 at Walmart

Cost: $10 | Type: Manual | Bristle options: Soft | Head size: Regular | Color options: Silver, rose gold | Special features: Orthodontics-friendly bristle shape

Braces are a significant investment, and the right toothbrush is crucial for maintaining them. The OrthoBrush from SuperMouth is a fantastic manual option with an innovative bristle shape that effectively cleans around braces hardware.

My son recently got braces and prefers this manual toothbrush over the electric ones he's tried. He likes the control it offers, allowing him to easily adjust pressure on specific areas. Despite their softness, the bristles clean thoroughly, and his dentist even praised his oral hygiene, saying, "Keep up the good work!"

I recommend using this toothbrush with a water flosser for the best results.

Pros
  • Specially shaped, braces-friendly bristles
  • Safe for sensitive teeth and gums
  • Bristles reach around hardware for an effective clean
Cons
  • Wears out quickly with hard brushing
  • Works best when used with a water flosser
$10 at Supermouth

Cost: $10 for set of 2 | Type: Manual | Bristle options: Soft | Head size: Regular | Color options: orange or blue | Special features: foldable design, nano-silver infused bristles

In terms of innovation, this travel toothbrush from Mouthwatchers checks all the boxes. First, it folds into itself, saving space in your toiletry bag while also negating the need for a separate toothbrush holder or cap. Its bristles are also infused with nano-silver, which some studies indicate can act to fight bacteria buildup on the brush head (though probably not as well as toothbrush brands would like to claim). Finally, the soft, polyester bristles are 10 times finer than the average toothbrush, making it easier to clean along the gum line and between your teeth, leaving you with a squeaky-clean feeling.

Truly, I have loved using this travel toothbrush as my primary toothbrush because it really does leave my teeth feeling clean. That said, I'm not the biggest fan of the handle design. It works as a travel toothbrush, but for day-to-day use it's probably best to go ahead and buy the brand's standard model. 

Pros
  • Foldable design for travel —?no separate case needed
  • Ultra-fine "flossing" bristles
  • Nano-silver infused bristles self-clean between brushes
Cons
  • The handle feels somewhat awkward
$10 at Amazon

Choosing the right toothbrush is crucial for maintaining good oral hygiene. Each type offers unique features and benefits, making it essential to select one that fits your specific needs.

Here's an overview of the various types of toothbrushes available:

Manual toothbrushes have a wooden or plastic handle with a bristled head that you operate using circular motions. This type of toothbrush gives you more control over pressure and placement.

People often choose manual toothbrushes because of their noiseless function, lack of charging hassle and portability.

Electric toothbrushes provide thorough cleaning with self-oscillating or rotating bristles. While they're more expensive than manual toothbrushes, electric toothbrushes remove more plaque than manuals and help with accuracy and timing.

"About half of the patients I see in my practice don't brush their gum line well, and this is where the electric toothbrush plays a big role in improving their oral health," says Priya Mistry, DDS, The TMJ Doc in Vancouver, Wash.

Electric toothbrushes come in several types, each with unique features:

  • Sonic toothbrushes: These toothbrushes use high-frequency vibrations to clean teeth. These vibrations create continuous waves of motion, effectively dislodging debris and plaque.

  • Oscillating-rotating toothbrushes: These models have bristles that move back and forth in a sweeping motion, propelled by a motor. This action helps to clean teeth and gums thoroughly. A 2022 study found a "small but significant difference" in the efficacy of oscillating-rotating toothbrushes compared to sonic toothbrushes.

  • Ultrasonic toothbrushes: Operating at even higher frequencies than sonic toothbrushes, these options are ideal for those needing extra help with plaque removal, stains and other dental issues.

Not all toothbrushes are created equal, and purchasing a model that's right for your needs is important.

  • For braces: "If you have braces, you'll want a toothbrush that can navigate around the brackets and wires. A toothbrush with V-shaped bristles, designed specifically for orthodontic patients, can help clean around braces more efficiently. Electric toothbrushes with orthodontic heads can also be very effective,” says Perry.

  • For sensitive teeth: Perry explains, "People with sensitive teeth should also opt for soft-bristled brushes. Some toothbrushes come with extra-soft bristles designed to be gentle on both teeth and gums. It's important to avoid anything too abrasive that might exacerbate sensitivity."

  • For kids: According to pediatric dentist Paul Allen, DDS, from All Kids Dental Pediatric and Orthodontics in Rifle, Colo., there are several features to look for in kid toothbrushes: a small head and soft bristles, which are suitable for smaller mouths and gentle on gums; fun and engaging designs or characters to encourage regular brushing; and timers to help ensure that they brush for the recommended two minutes.

With so many options on the market, selecting the best toothbrush for your needs can be overwhelming. Here are key factors to consider when purchasing a toothbrush:

"Soft bristles are gentle on the gums and teeth, minimizing the risk of abrasion and irritation. Hard-bristled toothbrushes can be too harsh on the enamel and gums, potentially causing damage and recession over time," says Joyce Kahng, a cosmetic dentist at Orange and Magnolia Dental Studio in Costa Mesa, Calif. That said, she explains there may be specific situations where a dentist may recommend a brush with harder bristles. For instance, for cleaning dentures or other dental appliances. "It's essential to consult your dentist for personalized advice regarding the firmness level that suits your oral health needs," Kahng says.

Always choose a toothbrush that fits comfortably in your mouth. "A good toothbrush should have the right-sized head to fit your mouth. Smaller mouths need a smaller head while larger ones need a bigger head," says Jordan Albino, DDS, a dentist at Kids Dental Studio in Ontario, Canada.

According to the ADA, manual and electric toothbrushes can each clean effectively. However, manual brushes must be used correctly to do the job well.

Electric toothbrushes leave less room for error. Features like built-in timers ensure you brush long enough in all the right places.

Use a manual if you can stick to a solid regimen without the reminders of an electric toothbrush.

You can find ADA-approved manual and electric toothbrushes online.

Extra features to consider include:

  • Timers: You should brush your teeth for at least two minutes, twice a day. Timers on children's and adult toothbrushes can help ensure you meet this guideline.

  • Pressure sensors: Applying more pressure doesn’t mean a better clean. In fact, too much pressure can harm gums and teeth and cause your toothbrush to wear out quickly. Many electric toothbrushes feature built-in pressure sensors that alert you if you're brushing too hard.

  • Cleaning modes: Some electric toothbrushes have multiple cleaning modes. For example, the Oral B iO Series 5 includes a gum massaging mode to help reduce inflammation.

"On average, you can spend around $5 to $10 on a manual toothbrush. Electric toothbrushes, which offer additional benefits like oscillating or rotating bristles, can range from $20 to $200. Remember that investing in a good toothbrush is worthwhile for maintaining good oral hygiene and preventing dental problems in the long run," says Kahng.

"The number one thing you should look for in a good toothbrush is that it has the ADA Seal of Acceptance. This will let you know that the toothbrush has been tested for safety and efficacy," says Collin Bowerman, chief dental officer at Risas Dental and Braces in Gilbert, Ariz.

For starters, this article involved a lot of toothbrushing. I received sample toothbrushes from various companies to find the best models on the market.

My family and I tried each and compared notes on efficiency, ease of use and unique features. I also considered pricing and consumer reviews.

Finally, I relied heavily on expert commentary from the ADA and dentists. I researched recent studies and findings from the ADA to weigh the pros and cons of each toothbrush.

"You want a toothbrush that fits your unique needs. If surface staining and plaque removal are your primary focus, find a toothbrush with an oscillating head," says Fatima Khan of Riven Oral Care in Houston. "If you have gingival recession, you want a toothbrush that uses sonic waves (vibrations) to break off food or plaque at the gum line and has a pressure sensor to prevent further gingival damage."

She also suggests that if the vibration sensation feels uncomfortable or awkward, you may want to try a different setting or mode. "If you are a speedy brusher, you may need a brush with a two-minute timer. Also, pay attention to the size of the toothbrush head," says Khan. "A larger toothbrush head may look appealing, but it may be more difficult to maneuver in your mouth. A smaller toothbrush head can get around the back of your molar teeth more easily and do a better job cleaning your teeth."

According to the ADA, you should replace your toothbrush every 3 or 4 months or when the bristles become frayed or matted.

Additionally, if you’ve been sick, you should change your toothbrush to prevent the spread of germs.

Soft, medium and hard bristles refer to the difference in firmness of toothbrush bristles. According to Khan, most dentists recommend soft toothbrushes, although some people just prefer the feel of medium or hard bristles.

"When it comes to bristle type, soft is the way to go. Soft bristles are recommended as they are gentle on enamel and help prevent gum recession. They effectively remove plaque without causing harm to your gums," says Khan. "On the other hand, medium and hard bristles carry a higher risk of damaging gum tissue and thinning it out. However, the availability of medium- and hard-bristle brushes in the market is mainly due to consumer preference."

Electric toothbrushes leave less room for user error, which means most people benefit from their use. That said, manual toothbrushes can be perfectly effective as long as you're using them the right way and brushing for a sufficient period of time.

"Electric toothbrushes have gained popularity due to their advanced features. The key advantage of electric toothbrushes is their oscillating, rotating and pulsating technology, which replicates the motions needed for thorough cleaning," says Khan. "They often come with a built-in two-minute timer, different modes and dentist-inspired brush heads. Electric toothbrushes are especially beneficial for individuals with dexterity issues, weak grip or arthritis. However, some people prefer traditional toothbrushes due to the tactile feel and lower cost."

The ADA Seal of Acceptance signifies that a company has provided scientific evidence demonstrating the safety and effectiveness of its product. The ADA rigorously investigates this evidence to verify the product's claims.

When you see the ADA Seal on a toothbrush or other dental product, it assures you that it meets high standards and is likely to perform effectively. More than 200 dental products have earned the ADA Seal of Acceptance, indicating their endorsement by dental experts for quality and reliability.

Ordo is a UK-based company that produces a no-fuss, reasonably priced electric toothbrush. When I pulled it out of the box, I noticed a few errant bristles, and upon reading reviews, I found that shedding was a common problem.

There wasn’t anything inherently wrong with SuperMouth’s electric kids' toothbrush. It worked well, and my child seemed to enjoy it. The Philips Sonicare version was slightly better and had more favorable reviews, cementing its top spot on this list.

While the Quip is a reasonable price, it felt flimsy, almost like it wouldn’t last long. After reading the reviews, I found that many users reported that the brush heads wore out quickly.

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