Oral-B iO Ultimate Clean vs Gentle Care: Which Brush Head Should You Choose?
Short answer
Choose iO Ultimate Clean for the deepest everyday clean, and iO Gentle Care if your teeth or gums are sensitive. Both fit every Oral-B iO handle, so you can switch between them whenever you like.
Side by side
| iO Ultimate Clean | iO Gentle Care | |
|---|---|---|
| Bristles | Tufted, dual length CrissCross bristles | 4,000 extra soft bristles with a cushioning outer ring |
| Designed for | Deep cleaning between teeth and along the gumline | Sensitive teeth and gums |
| Fits | All Oral-B iO handles | All Oral-B iO handles |
What is iO Ultimate Clean best for?
A thorough daily clean. Oral-B describes its tufted bristles in varying lengths as reaching deep between the teeth and into hard to reach areas, and states that it reduces plaque build-up along the gumline. Oral-B says it removes up to 100% more plaque than a regular manual toothbrush.
Which Oral-B iO brush head is best for sensitive gums?
Gentle Care. Oral-B describes it as having 4,000 soft bristles and a cushioning outer ring that adapts to the curve of each tooth and protects the gums, with extra soft bristles for sensitive teeth and gums. Pair it with your iO's Sensitive mode for the gentlest brush.
Do all iO brush heads fit every iO toothbrush?
Yes. Oral-B designs iO heads exclusively for iO handles, including the iO6 and iO10. They do not fit older Oral-B handles, and older heads do not fit iO.
Can you switch between them?
Yes. Some people use Gentle Care while their gums are tender and Ultimate Clean the rest of the time. The iO10 comes with two of each, so you can try both.
How often should you replace an iO brush head?
Every 3 months, or sooner if the bristles look frayed. The American Association of Orthodontists and the American Dental Association both give the same guidance for electric brush heads.
Sources and evidence
- Oral-B, iO Ultimate Clean replacement brush heads product information: bristles, plaque claim, compatibility.
- Oral-B, iO Gentle Care brush heads product information: bristles, sensitive gums, compatibility.
- American Dental Association, "Toothbrushes": replacement interval.
- American Association of Orthodontists, "General Questions": replacement interval.
Related questions
What does the pressure sensor on an Oral-B iO do?
It tells you when you are brushing too hard. See the full answer.
How long should you brush with an electric toothbrush?
Two minutes, twice a day. See the full answer.
Is an electric toothbrush better than a manual one?
Yes. See what a review of 56 trials found.
Relevant products
Oral-B iO Replacement Heads, Ultimate Clean and Gentle Care
Oral-B iO10 Electric Toothbrush, Cosmic Black
General information only, not dental advice.