Philips Sonicare Essence 5300 Power Toothbrush By bamabride on Feb 10, 2009 - Updated Oct 15, 2011

This rechargeable toothbrush cleans with ultra-high speed bristles and the oft-grip handle holds a charge for up to 2 weeks ... a feature ideal for travel. It has a 2-minute Smartimer and removes 80% of coffee and tobacco stains in just 28 days. It includes 1 contoured brush head, charger base, and travel case.

I bought one of these on the recommendation of my dentist. I was rather skeptical, but he was so enthusiastic that it seemed worth a try. I'm glad I did! These 'sonic' toothbrushes get your teeth far cleaner than I ever managed with a manual toothbrush ... it's almost like getting a professional cleaning. The way the brush works (by vibrating instead of you physically pushing it against your teeth and gums) also seems to be quite gentle on my gums.

The engineering is rather fascinating ... there are no electrical or other connections (it recharges through an electromagnetic field instead of a wire) and the brush head itself actually works like a tuning fork, vibrating from ultrasonic sound produced by a device in the handle. My teeth have never felt cleaner and its so easy to use. It also does a great job of cleaning and massaging the gums.

If you are looking to buy an electric toothbrush, consider this one. The heads are easy to swap out if you share it with a significant other.

Once you've used it for a couple of weeks, you'll be amazed that you ever managed to brush without one. I can't recommend it enough.