Philips Sonicare Xtreme e3000 Power Toothbrush (Orange)
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Philips Sonicare Xtreme e3000 Power Toothbrush (Orange) Details
Manufacturer: Philips SonicareBrand: Philips
Release Date: 2006-07-01
Model: HX3551
Color: Orange
Product features:
- Patented sonic technology delivers a unique dynamic cleaning action for superior plaque reduction
- Gentle comfortable, and effective, even for those with braces or brackets
- Safe for use with braces and bracketsHigh velocity bristle movement results in direct contact with each tooth, to cover more area in less time
- Includes a two-year limited warranty and two AA batteries
- Battery-operated toothbrush is designed specifically for preteens and teens
- The Sonic Seal for E-Series Sonicare Replacement Heads, 3 Count (Blue, Pink, Frost)
- Philips Sonicare HX7012/60 e-Series Compact Replacement Brush Heads, 2-Pack
- Philips Sonicare HX7002/62 e-Series Standard Replacement Brush Heads, 2-Pack
- Philips Sonicare HX6932/10 FlexCare RS930 Rechargeable Electric Toothbrush
- Philips Sonicare UV Sanitizer
Customer Reviews of Philips Sonicare Xtreme e3000 Power Toothbrush (Orange)
Customer Review: Does the job
Summary: 4 Stars
I had a 3 or 4 year old Sonicare Elite that finally died. The Elite's NiCad battery was almost toast and would barely hold a charge through a single session. But what did it in was the rubber cover on the switch ripped, water got in and fried the electronics.
While I liked the Elite, it irritated me that relatively expensive product seemed designed to fail as NiCads don't last all that long. So I though I'd try this, cheaper version with user replaceable batteries.
The Xtreme doesn't have a lot of the features the Elite had, such as a battery power indicator array, a "soft start" feature where the unit's power is dialed down for the first few uses so a newcomer can get accustomed to the appliance, a 30 second "quadpacer" to help one judge how long to brush the four zones as defined by Sonicare (upper & lower sets of teeth, front and back of each set), or the ability to add an extra 30 seconds to the recommended total brush time.
However, already familiar with the Sonicare experience, I found each and every one of these bells and whistles superfluous. Don't need the soft start, I tend to spend more time using the thing than even the 2.5 minutes, and with replaceable rechargeable NiMH batteries, no need for a battery status indicator array.
The casing on the Xtreme is a bit fatter as well, to accommodate two AA batteries. It is all hard plastic whereas the Elite had some rubberized areas to improve grip. It did feel a little more awkward at first, but I'm now used to it. It might be worth it if Sonicare added just a touch of knurling or surface roughness to the two grip areas.
I've read where others have experienced some reliability problems, primarily due to corrosion of the battery contacts. Two simple precautions: First, unscrew the handle from the brush head before rinsing off the latter, and store the handle independently, like in a drawer beside your sink. This will keep the handle, and thus the battery contacts, nice and dry. Second, if you're still concerned about it, apply a touch of dielectric grease to the contacts. This is the stuff mechanics squirt into spark plug wire boots so they don't stick and make removal easier when the time comes to change spark plugs. You can find it at most any automotive parts store (Advance Auto, Autozone, etc.) or maybe even Wally World, though I haven't checked there.
The other major complaint I've seen concerns the switch. My unit is also a bit persnickety as well. Sometimes you can hear the switch click but it doesn't "make". Wiggling my thumb or finger around on the rubber button cover, while also depressing it, seems to solve the problem. It is annoying but not a deal breaker for me.
I've also been impressed with the Xtreme's power, which seems to remain consistent over the life of the battery charge. My older Elite, well, you could tell when it was time for a recharge without having to look at that silly power indicator, for it would slow down and I could even get it to stall if I pushed hard enough. Not so with this new Xtreme.
I seem to get about 2 weeks out of a set of Duracell 2300 mAH batteries, using the appliance twice a day, about 3 or 4 minutes each. And as NiMH batteries seem to get better after some use, perhaps that will improve as well.
Sonicare claims the brush head should be replaced at 6 month intervals. Hah! I've never gotten more than 3 out of any of mine, and by then they're as limp and soggy as overcooked spaghetti. I just have Amazon send a pair every 6 months, and pop on a new one at the equinoxes and solstices.
I've had this Xtreme machine for about a month and a half. So far, I'm pleased, and happy I didn't toss away more money on one of the fancier models that I know is doomed to fail due to the nonreplaceable NiCad battery. Plus, even if it dies an early death, I still think the math favors the Xtreme. Assuming one doesn't need those additional features found on the higher priced models.
Description of Philips Sonicare Xtreme e3000 Power Toothbrush (Orange)
Xtreme e3000 makes it easy for preteens and teens to practice good oral care-even with braces and brackets. With its patented sonic technology and 2-minute smartimer the Sonicare Xtreme creates dynamic fluid action that leads to improved brushing compliance, healthier mouths, and better check-ups.The Sonicare Extreme e3000 Power Toothbrush is the first sonic, battery-operated toothbrush designed specifically for teens and preteens. Stylish, powerful and portable, the Extreme e3000 delivers all the oral health benefits of other Sonicare toothbrushes, with a special emphasis on improving the brushing habits of younger users. Safe, comfortable, and effective, even for those with braces or brackets, the e3000 encourages healthy oral hygiene habits for life.
 The Extreme e3000 for preteens and teens. |
 | #1 Recommended brand by U.S. dental professionals |
 | Better check-ups ? Guaranteed! |
 | Smartimer® |
 | Uses two AA alkaline batteries (included). |
 | Safe for use with braces. |
