HydraBrush Express Power Toothbrush
(Click here)
HydraBrush Express Power Toothbrush Details
Manufacturer: HydrabrushBrand: Hydrabrush
Release Date: 2006-06-23
Model: HBE
Color: White
Product features:
- Power toothbrush utilizes eight revolutionary micro brushes
- HydraBrush Express is the first and only toothbrush, (manual or powered) to receive the Arthritis Foundation Ease-of-Use Commendation.
- Teeth and gums are cleaned in 40 seconds or less
- Bite'n'Glide brushing covers both top and lower teeth
- Promotes whiter teeth, healthier gums, fresher breath, and more
- HydraBrush Express Replacement BrushHead, Standard Soft (4 Pack)
- HydraBrush Express Replacement BrushHead, Ultra Soft (4 Pack)
- Violight Vio300 Dental Spa
- Waterpik Ultra Water Flosser
- The Doctor's Sulcus Brush, 1 brush (Pack of 6) Colors May Vary
Customer Reviews of HydraBrush Express Power Toothbrush
Customer Review: Its a little noisy, but works well -- its not a gimmick.
Summary: 5 Stars
My initial impression after using it for two days now is favorable. My gums have bled a lot, but that might be because I've never brushed my teeth this insanely till now.
I believe the manufacturer claim that you 'can brush in 40 seconds' is fairly accurate, here's why: Because it uses 6 brush surfaces at a time (instead of 1 in a regular toothbrush), it truly IS a time saver in that respect. You certainly feel like you are geting more out of your typical 1 minute brushing that you ever did before. Someone was really thinking outside the box when they designed this thing.
The big advantage to this product (to me), is that you still only spend 40 second to 1 minute per brushing ... vs. 3 minutes+ for a product like the sonicare. I just didn't see myself making the commitment and keeping to it over the long haul (just being realistic). Also, this product requires very little skill to properly position (just bit down, hold hydrabrush with two fingers, so it can self-pivot ... whereas sonicare and other electric brushes require 30 seconds per quadrant and you must be skilled enough to aim it and angle it ... sure, not hard, but if your using bad technique, then yours also not doing a good job.
I did accidently run it on high the first time, before I realized that low was the second click over, not the first click over, which seems kind of counter-intuitive to me. I should have looked at the unit closer, as it shows "2 dots" (for fast) and shows "1 dot" (for slow) ... they tried, but I still got it wrong somehow. As a result of my first use and the high setting, my rear gums bled a lot. This was documented in the instruction and seem normal (to bleed the first few days).
I think the fast speed will ultimately be what I want to use, but slow is nearly as effective and still quite a workout for the teeth and gums. Clearly, slow is best for newbies like myself. As I write this, I can still feel my gums and they feel like they got quite a workout.
The brush unit itself is quite big, but the brushes were smaller than expected, which was a good thing. The pictures online made these brushes appear to be quite huge and I wondered how I'd have room for it all in my mouth. Some people with small mouths might potentially have an issue using the hydrabrush. Some people with small hands might potentially find holding it a bit cumbersome. It works fine for me, despite the large size. My kids saw me using it today after work and they were like "wow dad, thats cool" ... "it looks like it does a REALLY good job!".
I had read that the brushes were not easy to put on and take off -- but it seems fairly easy, not really hard. I wouldn't want to share an electric toothbrush with anyone in the first place! I took them off to clean off the brushes a little better, so I removed the brushes by pressing in a small metal pin on each brush head (there are two brush heads totaland pull) and pulling each one out -- not hard to do if you ask me. Putting them back on was simply: push on, click ... its on, then repeat for second head.
I worry a litle about the dual motors holding up over time. It seems like the motors almost bog down at times on my rear molars, esp. on the low speed ... but it DOES keep going. You can bite down a little less and it seems to relieve the motor strain somewhat. I've noticed this is mainly only observed after a week of use. Fully charged, it's a powerhouse.
I'm trying to see how many days it'll last on a single charge. So far, two days and still going strong. Its doing a lot of work, so I perhaps worry that the batteries won't last long.
I will say that it "feels" like I just got out of a dental cleaning, for the most part. You know, its a good, clean feeling -- but also one where you feel a bit abused. My teeth and gums feels pretty beaten up in just 1 minute. I will say that I perceive the 1 minute brush time to be VERY effective, based on how clean it feels after such a short period of brushing. It feels like a brushed a LOT longer than I did.
I hope my gums get used to this and stop bleeding in a few more days. The bleeding never lasts long, which I think is a good sign.
I read somewhere that this toothbrush is not waterproof, and that appears to be true, as it came with a 'water shield' to go around the brush unit, just below where the brushes attach. This seems to work pretty well and it doesn't seem to come loose. So far, the unit is staying dry with little to no extra effort on my part. I don't really use the included holder or case, I just set the unit on the side of the sink (on a small washcloth) so it can drip dry into the sink. Thats just me.
The unit charges overnight and they tell you not to overcharge it beyond that. It blinks while charging and then stops after its charged. THey says its good for something like 40 uses, which I'll be surprised if thats true. I'd be happy if it lasted for 20 1 minutes sessions. I've used it 5 times thus far.
Using the hydrabrush consists of holding the unit with two fingers (loosely) and then biting down somewhat on the brushes and letting it glide down your teeth somewhat on its own. You do push and pull it along somewhat, but you don't have to angle or work on brushing technique at all. This is truly a gadget which could turn us all into brushing idiots. This is quite strange, but seems to be pretty easy to do and it's hard to imagine people having a hard time using it, after adjusting to its strangeness.
The small amount of toothpaste I put into each brush seems to get stuck and does take a little extra cleaning to remove after brushing. Maybe I'm not putting in on right. The owners manual makes it sound like toothpaste is 'optional' -- strange.
The feeling I get after using the hydrabrush is -- "wow, my teeth feel really clean". I don't think my back molars have ever been brushed with this much vigor before. I guess the real test will be (the comments I get) at my next dentist appointment.
Update: bleeding of gums has long since stopped and the hydrabrush is still going strong on the original (first) charge. I'm very impressed with the brush, as it appears to be doing a good job with my teeth. I'm hoping for a good comment from my dental hygienist on my next visit. I've also been using the Waterpik ... and its also a very good product.
No, I haven't tried the extra reach brushes. Since my teeth were badly worn down by childhood grinding, I fugured my teeth were too short to require those brush heads. I think I'm getting plenty of coverage with the basic heads, but I could see how people with better teeth (taller teeth) could require the extra reach heads.
The hydrabrush did finally run out of power from the initial charge -- and I would say I got a good 2 weeks on the charge, if not more.
One minor concern that has come up after using the hydrabrush, is the amount of noise it makes, esp. when using at bedtime, when others might already be asleep. It gets louder the more drained the batteries get, so it might be more of a motor strain noise than anything. I've noticed fully charged batteries are more quiet.
I'm still impressed with how good this makes my teeth feel after only 1 minute of brushing. I believe its about time I write a review for amazon, not that I've had some time to use this product.
I would add that the hydrabrush would probably not be so great for little kids, since the brush itself is quite big and might be too much for a little pallete, with little teeth. Probably ages 10+ would be appropriate.
Update: I have since switched to the high speed setting.
I would also say that (for me) this product, like a water pik, can be a tad messy and requires you brush over the sink, so that water and toothpaste can drop into it while brushing. It's not a major amount, but I do find that a controlled 'drool' while brushing is almost necessary, unless you stop in the middle. I just drool and complete it in 1 minutes or less.
I do advise using the included rubber (waterproof sheath) that is included, as it keeps the water from running down onto the handle while in use. Since the unit is not fully waterproof, using this is mandatory in my mind.
I had to buy this to see if this device was "for real", or just another infomercial gimmick ... but I'll say, it's for real ... and if you go into it with an open mind and some flexibility for a little noise and mess ... this will really do a nice job on your teeth.
The replacement heads are cheaper than sonicare as well. A four pack is really two complete replacement sets. A two pack is a single replacement set.
Updated 9/2007 - I'm still using it and its still working fine. I think I would probably review my rating to 4 stars, just because the units build quality seems a little lacking and I worry that its lack of water-proofing might become an issue some day. I rest the unit on the side of the sink for a couple minutes after using, so that the water can drip off the heads. You definately 'get used to it' ... but it is awkward at first. I think using this product with a simple store-bought electric toothbrush makes for a pretty great combination. I could see that kids could benefit from using this, as its really brushed the insides of the teeth well, an area hard to reach for many folks, myself included.
Description of HydraBrush Express Power Toothbrush
tooth brushHydraBrush enables a user to thoroughly and perfectly brush every surface of the teeth and massage the gums, all in 40 seconds, with little effort. People are inherently averse to change. Toothbrushing is no different. Although there are dozens of shapes and styles of toothbrushes, we always envision a toothbrush with a single head. So when people see HydraBrush for the first time, a typical reaction is everything from amazement to intimidation.
Why is HydraBrush different than other toothbrushes?
HydraBrush is unlike any toothbrush you have ever seen. Manufacturers keep trying to improve upon the toothbrush, making it spin, beep, use timers, sonic, oscillate, but the truth is, they all operate on the same principle and all of these products are only as good as the person using them. The problem, whether we wish to admit it or not, is that most people just don't take the time or exercise the dexterity to brush properly. That's why, despite all the different types of brushes available, 80% of the US adult population suffers from some degree of gum disease! Proper oral care is dependent upon eliminating human error. To do this, you either spend a couple of minutes trying to brush properly with the crop of toothbrushes already out there or switch to a new product that provides a new solution based upon advanced technology. HydraBrush operates with new, advanced technology. The multi-micro brushes you see on the HydraBrush Express are designed to remove human error and ensure you receive proper brushing every time (see product animation). As for the size and design, each one of those micro-brushes is ½ the size of the single headed brush you are forced to maneuver throughout your mouth when brushing the old fashioned way. Yes, the 21st century technology of HydraBrush looks different than the old fashioned single-headed brushes. But the real difference can only be appreciated by using HydraBrush and experiencing a new level of oral care that is fast, (1/3rd the time) and automatic -- every time you put it in your mouth.
Does HydraBrush Express Use Sonic Technology?
No, HydraBrush Express represents totally new technology. Toothbrushes have been around for a long time, and unfortunately, so have cavities and gum disease. The primary cause of cavities and gum disease is improper brushing (human error). Numerous studies show that if a person brushes properly and removes the bacteria from the teeth and along the gum lines they will significantly reduce the potential for cavities or gum disease. The solution to high quality oral care is not bristles moving at "Sonic Speed" it is utilizing the proper technique to ensure every surface of every tooth is cleansed and the gums properly massaged. That is how you remove harmful bacteria with HydraBrush, the patented multi-micro brushes ensures proper oral care with each and every use. You simply bite and guide and receive the level of oral care you need and deserve in 1/3rd the time required by all other power toothbrushes.
Is the HydraBrush safe for children, and does it require any special brushes?
Clinical studies have shown HydraBrush to be totally safe for anyone seeking a higher quality of oral hygiene. We hear from parents all the time, who tell us their kids love HydraBrush and think it is cool. More importantly, parents tell us that they love HydraBrush because they no longer have to stand over their children to make sure they are properly brushing their teeth. They tell us, "If I hear the HydraBrush I know my child is getting proper oral care." And that is what we call, "The HydraBrush Difference." With HydraBrush kids receive a proper brushing, where with other products they and often their parents have to do the work. The patented multi-micro heads are ideal for children's use. They are small enough to easily fit into their mouth and HydraBrush is safe and easy to use. The product has been used successfully by children for the past two years. But don't take our word, let HydraBrush speak for itself. You have ZERO risk why? Because we are so certain your child will experience a new level of oral care, that we stand behind our 30 day guarantee Have your child try it for 30 days, and if it does not meet your expectations, you can return it for a full refund - no hassles, no questions, no delay!
How often do I need to replace the heads?
HydraBrush heads should be replaced every 90 days. The reason brush heads should be replaced every 3 months is because bristles from any leading brand start to become splayed and frayed, and consequently much less effective. Not only are old brush-heads ineffective, but they may harbor harmful bacteria that can cause infection such as gingivitis and periodontitis. Sick people should change their brush-heads at the beginning of an illness and after they feel better.
How will HydraBrush benefit my family?
HydraBrush is ideal for any member of the family, young children, teens, college students, Mom, Dad and Grandparents. Oral care is a vital part of our overall health. In fact the US Surgeon General stated in 2003, "If your mouth is not healthy, your body will not be healthy." Let's face it, brushing your teeth is a lifetime proposition. It's something we do every day, but do we do it well? With HydraBrush every member of your family will receive proper oral care every day. And often times, Grandma and Grandpa may have a problem using a traditional toothbrush to properly brush. HydraBrush will do the job for them. And that means whiter teeth, healthier gums, fresher breath, and better overall health for all family members. It also means a better partnership with your dental professional. And while this can mean great savings in dental bills, the ultimate prize is better health and a family with bright, beautiful, healthy smiles.
How long do I need to charge the HydraBrush?
The first thing you should do after unpacking your HydraBrush is plug the A/C adaptor into the handle, and charge it for approximately 12 hours. A red light will flash on and off to indicate your HydraBrush is charging. Like a cell phone you simply charge HydraBrush overnight and it will be good to go in the morning. Please note, the red blinking indicates the product is charging it does not indicate when charging is complete. The battery will be completely charged within a 12-hour period. On a full charge, you will be able to brush for a minimum of 3 weeks (twice daily) before recharging. This makes HydraBrush ideal for travel, in fact, many customers report greater than 30 days of use (twice daily) after fully charging their HydraBrush.
Does HydraBrush brushing action cause gum abrasion?
HydraBrush was designed to automatically provide you with the gentle massage/stimulation of the gums recommended by dental professionals. The positioning and movement (short, quick strokes with the ultra soft micro-brushes) ensures this takes place. This is supported by two major clinical studies, one conducted at the Medical College of Georgia, School of Dentistry and the other at the University of Tennessee , Health Science Center, where they came to the following conclusions on the safety of HydraBrush:
1. Medical College of Georgia Study: "The HydraBrush Oral Health System has proven to be a safe, well accepted and effective device."
2. University of Tennessee , Health Science Center Study: "Neither the HydraBrush, nor the other tested brushes caused any adverse reactions that could be attributed to the brush."
3. "Neither the HydraBrush, nor the other tested brushes caused any increase in gingival recession."
Do I need toothpaste?
All you need is to apply a tiny pea-sized dollop of toothpaste to the each side (top and bottom) of the HydraBrush micro-brushes. The toothpaste applied through the effective brushing action of HydraBrush will remove the bacterial plaque biofilm and remove stain while applying fluoride - so important in the prevention of tooth decay.
How can I clean my tongue?
HydraBrush Express comes with a tongue cleaner.
Can I use only one head?
No. It is essential that both heads are used, because the movement of each head reciprocates or balances the movement of the other making it possible for all six surfaces of the teeth to be cleaned simultaneously while also massaging the gums. Additionally, the brush heads snap on to metal pins, if both heads are not fastened on then one of the pins would be exposed and could possibly cause damage to the teeth or gums.
Is HydraBrush Express good for people who wear braces?
The answer is YES. Most people who wear braces find it difficult to maneuver a conventional single-headed brush around the braces. As a result, far too often their oral hygiene suffers. A private study showed that HydraBrush does an exceptional job cleaning the teeth of a person wearing braces. This is because when the user bites into the micro brush heads they are automatically positioned to provide a proper cleaning of the teeth and massaging of the gums.
At what speed does HydraBrush Express Operate?
We found through extensive testing that there is an ideal stroke speed for brushing. The ideal speed is 810 strokes per minute. Why? Because this speed enables the bristle tips to penetrate and clean interproximally, removing harmful particles and bacteria from between the users teeth. This speed also provides a stimulating and comfortable massage of the gums.
Can I take it in the shower?
HydraBrush is designed to be waterproof, but not guaranteed if used in the shower. Using HydraBrush in the shower will void the warranty. Therefore it is not recommended to use in the shower.
Are the bristles soft?
Yes - in fact, our standard soft is .001 softer than typical soft brushes found on other toothbrushes, and we also have an Ultra Soft for people with very sensitive gums.
Color in the bristles - what is it made from?
All bristle colors used comply with US Federal Drug Administration Regulation 21 CFR 178.3297 - colorant levels below 1% by weight and no heavy metal based pigments. All plastics and filaments have been tested for extraction and no significant colorant extraction shown. All colors comply with all applicable standards in Europe and to the US Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act.
There was a soft rubber square (about 1" x 1 1/4"), with a hole in the middle, stuffed inside the stand, in a baggie. Where does it go & what does it do?
The soft rubber square (about 1" x 1 1/4"), with a hole in the middle is called the "dribble guard collar". This white collar slips over the 'neck' of the handle, BEFORE the heads are snapped on. The concave part of rubber should be facing the heads. This guard helps prevent water and 'backwash' from your mouth (dribble) from running down the handle to your hand. Instead, it should drip straight down off the collar.
Bleeding gums?
Believe it or not this is not a bad sign. HydraBrush is designed to self-position in the users mouth ensuring that the micro-brush heads cleanse all surfaces of the teeth, while also correctly massaging the gums. Most people do not take the time nor exercise the dexterity to maneuver a single headed power or manual brush in such a way that they clean all surfaces of the teeth and massage the gums. If the teeth are not properly cleansed and the gums massaged, then the gums can become inflamed or infected. HydraBrush is designed to reach the neglected or hard to reach areas of the gums. As a result the user can experience some bleeding when these inflamed or infected areas are stimulated. Through continued use of HydraBrush the neglected area(s) of the gums will be restored to health and bleeding and any discomfort (which is negligible) will cease. To assist you in restoring your gums to a higher level of health every HydraBrush comes with Ultra Soft RED BRISTLES. The Ultra Soft Red Bristles should be used initially while HydraBrush restores your gums to health. After that you can use the Standard Soft Brushes for a more penetrating cleansing of the teeth and massaging of the gums.
Power Toothbrushes
Health, Care, Beauty Products
Bestsellers in Power Toothbrushes
Toothbrush Refill Adult Medium 3 ToothbrushsTerradent; Terradent; Health Care
Best price: $1.55
Price in other shops:
Sonicare Xtreme Power Toothbrush - Orange (E3000)Philips; Sonicare; Philips; Home
Oral-B Stages Stage 3 toothbrush for kids, Disney Pixars Cars - 1 eaOral-B; Oral-B; Health Care
SONICARE BASIC UNIT INCL.1 BRUSH HEAD MAP-59.99NORELCO CONSUMER PRODUCTS; NORELCO CONSUMER PRODUCTS; NORELCO CONSUMER PRODUCTS; Home
Philips Sonicare Xtreme e3000 Power Toothbrush (Orange)Philips Sonicare; Philips; Release date: 2006-07-01; Health Care
Price in other shops:
Oral-B Model S-200 Sonic Complete Rechargeable Power ToothbrushOral-B; Oral B; Release date: 2004-08-09; Health Care
Price in other shops:
Braun Oral-b Stages Db2010-princess Power ToothbrushBraun; Braun; Health Care
Best price: $7.88
Philips Sonicare Advance HX4012 Compact Replacement a-Series Compact Brush Head, Colors May Vary (2 Brush Heads)Philips Sonicare; Philips; Health Care
Best price: $52.99
Philips Sonicare Advance (A-Series) Replacement Brush Head, Compact (1-Pack)Philips Sonicare; Philips; Health Care
Best price: $23.99
Philips Sonicare Advance (A-Series) Replacement Brush Head, Standard (1-Pack)Philips Sonicare; Philips; Health Care
Price in other shops:
Similar Products
HydraBrush Multi-Head Power Toothbrush Hydra Brush - Replacement Brush Head - Extra Reach Ultra Soft - REPLACEMENTHydraBrush; Hydrabrush; Health Care
Best price: $5.85
HydraBrush Multi-Head Power Toothbrush Hydra Brush - Replacement Brush Head - Extra Reach Standard Soft - REPLACEMENTHydraBrush; Hydrabrush; Health Care
Best price: $5.85