We finally have a powerbrush that we can recommend for just $20. The Oral-B Vitality Sonic has replaceable heads, rechargeable batteries, and most importantly, a 2 minute timer. Its motion is similar to Philips Sonicare toothbrushes, at a much lower price. Feedback from our patients has been very good.
You can pick them up at your local drugstore, Walmart or Target. We also have them at our office for 1 easy payment of $20. In case you're wondering why one would buy a $100 powerbrush when we recommend a $20 one, this is what you get bumping up to higher line powerbrushes:
- Higher oscillations per second (read: rpms)
- Travel accessories / travel cases / travel chargers
- NiMH batteries - the Vitality has a NiCad battery, which has a memory effect. Nickel Metal Hydride Batteries (found in modern rechargeable AA's) have much less memory effect. NiMH powered toothbrushes can be charged every night without problem. NiCad toothbrushes (like the Vitality) will lose maximum power if you charge them every night.
Just a few years ago, the Vitality would have been a top-of-the-line, $100 toothbrush. It's still very good, and a heck of a lot better than a manual brush for many with less-than-perfect technique (you know who you are). If you can afford a top-of-the-line toothbrush, we recommend it because your mouth is worth the investment. But if $20 is all you have to spend (or to give), then the Vitality is the hands down best choice for $20 or less.