Electric toothbrushes & heads: your questions answered
How do I find the right replacement brush head?
Check the name of the head you already use; for Philips Sonicare it's often a code such as A3, C3, G3 or W. Most Sonicare click-on heads fit the brand's click-on handles, but some older and screw-on models are different, so check your handle first. Oral-B round heads, like CrossAction, fit Oral-B's rotating handles. Plus Ultra offers compatible heads with a lower-plastic design.
What's the difference between Sonicare brush head types?
Each series has a different focus. A-series all-in-one heads aim for an all-round clean, C-series heads focus on cleaning along and between teeth, G-series heads have softer, flexible sides for comfort along the gumline, and W-series heads are designed for a polished, brighter-looking surface. If you're unsure, an all-in-one head is a sensible default, and your dentist can suggest a type that suits you.
How often should I change an electric brush head?
Every three months is the usual guidance, or sooner if the bristles look splayed. Some Sonicare heads have reminder bristles that fade over time, and some handles tell you when it's time to swap. Rinse the head after use, pop it off now and then to clean underneath, and let it air dry. Using one head per person keeps things hygienic in shared bathrooms.
