This is my third Sonicare toothbrush (the other two being the older Essence and the Easyclean models). I knew I'd use the variable speed option, but was surprised I found myself also using modes other than just "clean". The "deep clean" setting really feels like it's doing a good job around my crowns. I can't provide objective proof it's more effective than the "clean" setting, but it feels like the bristles are hitting spots I don't normally notice. Being able to switch between medium and high settings while brushing is handy.
I'm undecided on the brush heads that came with it. The Intercare head really does get between teeth better, but the medium bristles are somewhat brutal. (Most dentists recommend soft bristles.) The Adaptive Clean head was annoying at first, but it's the one I just most often. Held at the correct angle and using the right pressure, it seems to get the under the gum line as well as the rest of the tooth surface. (Remember not to apply much pressure or else you'll cause receding gums and possible enamel damage. That goes for any toothbrush.) Of course, changing heads is easy so I can always switch if I decide neither is for me.
As for the design, I like that this model makes it easy to select speed and mode. I'm concerned that the recessed area around the power button may collect buildup. (The other models I owned had a button more flush with the surface). Otherwise it's very easy to clean. The inclusion of a travel case is very welcome. All models should have one.
Now for the drawbacks: the pressure sensor isn't sensitive enough. I had to press the head quite hard (into my hand, not my teeth) to get it to activate. Anyone brushing that hard would likely do damage before setting it off. The little stand for brush heads that goes over the charger doesn't fit the heads securely so they wobble and are easily knocked off. My biggest complaint is one that I have with all Sonicare toothbrushes: the inability to replace an inexpensive rechargeable battery. Especially given how often batteries go bad, this is just poor design. It's planned obsolescence at its worst, and a practice that's caught on with all battery powered electronics. It's especially bad because the life of the battery often extends just past the end of warranty. If you can live with that then I definitely recommend it.
Pros: effectiveness, options, esthetics
Cons: pressure warning not sensitive enough, area around power button harder to clean, built in battery
We have been Phillips toothbrush customers for 7 years. Unfortunately after one to one and half years, each model has had a performance problem. They are great when they work and we celebrate their warranty service. However, a more reliable product might be better for everyone.
Pros: fantastic cleaning, brightens teeth, useful features to customize brushing experience, healthier gums from use, wonderful warranty service
Cons: difficult to clean the nooks of the sanitizer, tendency to break down after 1-2 years use
The shaft that holds the toothbrush started to wobble and became extremely noisy after a few months.
Pros: deep clean feature is great
Cons: unit broke
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
Written by a customer while visiting philips.com
Customer Rating
1
Great brush, but broke after 3 months
on June 15, 2021
Posted by: xadamxk
Gender:Male
My initial experience was that this was the best Sonicare toothbrush I had ever used. However, after about 3 months, the paint was chipped off the button, and the medal rod the brush sits on became loose and causes the brush to rattle so much it’s unusable.
As much as I love this brush it doesn’t do me any good if the brush mount is broken.
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
Response from philips.comBy Philips Consumer Care, June 16, 2021
Hi Adam,
Thank you for leaving your review, we value your opinion! We're glad to hear that you enjoyed the cleaning ability of your Sonicare toothbrush. However, we are sorry that you experienced issues with the toothbrush rattling. We would like to help you out!
We remind you to ensure that the brush head is inserted properly and aligned in the same direction as the front handle. Please note that there will be a small gap between the brush head and handle. This is normal. Furthermore, please make sure that the bottom of the brush head and the area around the metal shaft is free of debris. You can clean your brush head and metal shaft with lukewarm water or soft cloth. We hope we have informed you well.
If this doesn't improve your experience, please reach out to us on Social Media. We’re available 24/7 on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/Philips ) and Twitter (https://twitter.com/philipscare). Alternatively, you can reach out to us via the contact page on our website. One of our colleagues will then try their best to help you further.
I've had other electric toothbrushes before and this one makes brushing your teeth enjoyable. The slim design and light weight makes it so effortless that you won't mind brushing your teeth for the preset 3 minutes, which is a great feature of this toothbrush. No more guessing how long you should brush, its already determined for you.The sensitivity feature is another great thing. No more bleeding gums or having your teeth hurt. All in all this is a toothbrush you should own!!
We've had our FlexCare Platinum for over three months and have used it every day. It has been working well. I'm glad it has multiple settings. My wife likes the deep clean setting, and I like the regular clean mode. I also really like the pressure sensor. I have the tendency to push the brush too hard against my teeth, and the toothbrush lets me know immediately when I do this.