Choose with confidence

How often to replace electric toothbrush heads, how to work out yearly running costs, brand compatibility, and when third-party heads make sense.

Oscillating-rotating vs sonic electric toothbrushes compared: how each cleans, what Cochrane research found, pressure sensors, timers, heads and costs.

Water flossers vs string floss and interdental brushes: what Cochrane research found, who each suits, pressure settings, tips and running costs.

Choose a toothpaste: fluoride levels and types, stannous fluoride, sensitivity ingredients, whitening pastes, abrasivity (RDA), kids' amounts and the ADA Seal.

Clean retainers and clear aligners without damage: daily rinsing and brushing, soaking products, what to avoid (hot water, harsh toothpaste, bleach) and storage.

Teeth whitening options compared: over-the-counter strips, custom trays from a dentist and in-office whitening, by peroxide type, results, sensitivity and cost.