Sonicare toothbrushes come in a variety of models and styles, and all of them feature removable brush heads that need to be replaced about every three months. Since only certain replacement heads fit certain models, it's important to figure out what type of Sonicare toothbrush you have before buying replacement heads.
Types
Sonicare makes seven major types of toothbrush handles, including the FlexCare, Healthy White, Elite, Essence, Advance, Xtreme and IntelliClean models. The ProResults replacement brush heads fit the FlexCare and Healthy White style handles. The e-series replacement brush heads, also called the Elite/Essence brush heads, fit the Elite, Essence, Advance and Xtreme models. The Advance types can either use the e-series brush replacements, or the Advance brush heads. IntelliClean brushes only work with IntelliClean replacement heads.
Identification
If you're not sure what type of Sonicare toothbrush you have, you can identify it by the types of cleaning modes or features it has. FlexCare brushes have GoCare and MaxCare options. Healthy White brushes have a Clean & White mode. Elite and Essence brushes both have thin, angled necks, but the Elite models have two cleaning speeds while Essence brushes only have one. Advance toothbrushes have wide necks, and Xtreme brushes have a replaceable AA battery compartment. IntelliClean brushes are the only ones that include a cartridge that automatically dispenses toothpaste into the brush head.
Size
The ProResults replacement brush heads come in two sizes: standard and compact. Both sizes are available in packs of three. The e-series brush heads come in one size only, and are available as single replacement or in packs of two. The Advance brush heads are available in standard and compact sizes, in packs of two. IntelliClean replacement brush heads are only available in standard size, in packs of two.
Features
The e-series brush heads feature an angled neck for easier cleaning, as well as soft, contoured bristles. Advance brush heads feature eight rows of bristles, and the two-packs come with different color markings on the heads, so that multiple users can tell their brushes apart. IntelliClean brush heads feature three different types of bristle softness. Standard size brushes provide a thorough cleaning for a wider area of tooth and gums, while the compact brush sizes work well in tight areas and for people with smaller mouths.
Considerations
Sonicare brush heads should be replaced every three months, or as needed. Sonicare replacement brush heads are available through the manufacturer's website, the Philips Home Store, which is linked below. On this site, customers can order individual replacement brush heads. For the ProResults and e-series brushes, they can subscribe to a plan that automatically ships replacements every three months. Amazon.com also features a subscription program for Sonicare brush heads. Replacement Sonicare brush heads are also available in many other stores.
Tags: brush heads, replacement brush, replacement brush heads, Elite Essence, Advance brush, Advance brush heads