Oral hygiene

Sonic toothbrush or rotating toothbrush: what's the difference?

By Philips

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01/09/2020

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2-5 min. read

Classically electrically rotating, pulsating, or even a modern sonic toothbrush? With the huge selection and variety of available electric toothbrushes, you can quickly lose track. In any case, it is undisputed that sonic toothbrushes and electric models clean our teeth more thoroughly (and easily) than conventional manual toothbrushes. But what cleans the teeth better, a sonic or electric toothbrush? In this article, we will explain the difference between sonic toothbrush and electric models, what the advantages of a sonic toothbrush are and how to find the right model for your personal needs.

At a glance

Rotating vs Sonic Toothbrush: Comparison of Effect
What is a sonic toothbrush?

Rotating vs Sonic Toothbrush: Comparison of Effect

First, let's look at the rotating, electric toothbrush. The classic electric toothbrush has a round head, which rotates back and forth about 5000 times per minute. Some models work pulsating at the same time: This is how manufacturers describe tapping the brush on the tooth to loosen plaque.

Now to the brushing technique: With a rotating toothbrush, each tooth must be cleaned individually. The brush head is attached to the gum line and guided from tooth to tooth. It is important not to forget the interdental spaces.1

An electrically rotating toothbrush is easy to handle and guarantees a more comfortable brushing experience than with a manual toothbrush.

What is a sonic toothbrush?

A sonic toothbrush is also an electric toothbrush, but compared to a classic rotating brush, it does not have a round, but an elongated head (similar to a manual toothbrush). The bristles of a sonic toothbrush generate several thousand vibrations per minute, driven by an electrically operated transducer.

The toothbrushing technique is similar to a manual toothbrush, with the difference that the sonic toothbrush hardly needs to be pressed, while the circulation effect also cleans the interdental spaces.

As with a classic electric toothbrush, you can choose a suitable brush head, adapted to your individual needs (whitening, gum-friendly, deep cleaning, etc.).

In order for your toothbrush to work properly, remain germ-free and last as long as possible, you should clean it regularly.