Which Oral-B cleans best: Pro 3 3000 v 3500 v iO? What does Whitening mode do? CrossAction v Precision v FlossAction?

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If your old toothbrush has seen better days but you’re confused about which Oral B model and brushing mode offers the best tooth cleaning and value for money, you’re not alone.

My old Braun Oral-B TriZone electric toothbrush – type 3756 shown on base

Still working after 10 years but battery only lasts 2-3 days

There are 3 things to consider – model, mode and brushes.

The Oral B Pro 3 and iO models are popular choices but what’s the difference and does the more expensive iO clean better?

Well the Pro 3 3500 is the same as the 3000 but includes a travel case and only comes in pink and black. The iO range has a magnetic motor which is quieter but its heads are over twice the price, not proven to clean better than the Pro 3 and not compatible with the heads of earlier Oral-B models.

The Pro 3 and iO both have the “3d Action” of oscillate (move back and forth), rotate and pulsate (vibrate against the tooth) but also a “Whitening” mode which varies oscillation speed up and down for deeper cleaning. There are further modes however all Pro3 and iO models also have “Daily Clean” and “Sensitive” modes and these 3 modes are sufficient for most people.

Finally onto heads. CrossAction heads have angled bristles for better cleaning though may be less comfortable than the basic Precision heads and the Floss Action head has micro pulse bristles for better interdental cleaning though doesn’t replace flossing. Some prefer the Deep sweep or trizone head which is shaped more like a manual toothbrush.