I have been using a Sonicare FlexCare for years (my dental hygienist recommended it to me) — it’s known for its ability to handle plaque removal, promote gum health and reduce stains. I recently discovered the Philips Sonicare DiamondClean (available in black, white and pink). What caught my attention is that it has a USB travel case that can be plugged into a laptop or wall outlet. That’s great for business travelers. And there are other reasons you’ll want to have one of these.

© 2014 Rob Hard

Philips Sonicare DiamondClean. © 2014 Rob Hard

How Does Sonicare Work? 

If you’re not familiar, Sonicare provides a high velocity of bristle movements — up to 31,000 movements per minute. That’s about 100 times more than manual brushing. The brush heads oscillate and twist. All you need to do is move the brush slowly and gently across your teeth and gums, and the brush heads take over from there. It removes plaque and other items that make their way on top of and between your teeth and gums. (Remember to cover the front and back sides of your teeth, all gum areas of your mouth and don’t neglect the tongue!) The handle is sleek and easy to hold.

The DiamondClean Charger

I am used to the Sonicare FlexCare base which includes storage for brush heads and a UV sanitizer that operates with a push of a button after use. I am also used to its charging base and that product’s streamlined look.

If you’re used to the other Sonicare products, I suspect the DiamondClean charger design may initially throw you off a little bit. That’s because it uses a glass charger and base (this model also doesn’t include the UV sanitizer). When charging, the handle sits in the glass on an angle (I also use the glass to store my handle and brush on a daily basis).

A full charge needs 24 hours, but (like the FlexCare) it will hold for up to three weeks.  That lets you use a minimum amount of electricity.

The DiamondCare Brush Heads

Shaped like a diamond, it actually has 44 percent more bristles than the standard sized ProResults brush head. That provides even better plaque removal and helps white teeth. The Sonicare DiamondClean comes has five brush modes:

  • Clean: The standard two-minute mode that also addresses plaque.
  • White: The clean mode followed by a 30 second polish mode for your front teeth.
  • Polish: A quick one-minute mode to polish your front teeth.
  • Gum Care: The clean mode plus an additional one-minute to gum massage.
  • Sensitive: A gentle two-minute mode for sensitive teeth and gums.

Brushes snap easily into the handle. To be sure, the cost of the DiamondClean brush head does cost more than the ProResults brush heads (Philips Sonicare HX6062/94 2 Piece Diamond Clean Standard Brush Heads, Black). However, it also seems to deliver better results, so that’s likely to pay off on a daily basis and at the dentist’s office.

The Verdict?

I have used DiamondClean (black edition) for a few weeks now, and it’s my review is that it does a slightly better job with plaque removal than my previous FlexCare.

Because I have a mouth full of dental veneers, I use the “sensitive” mode. But I also tested each of the other modes during this time. For most people, the “clean” mode will be a popular default. And if you’re wanting to give your gums a good massage and workout, I think the “gum care” mode is something you may want to use a few times a week.

If you already have a FlexCare model, then you may want to buy the DiamondClean brush heads for your current device because they fit both models.

If you’re considering an upgrade or a new Sonicare, the DiamondClean is Phillip’s high-end model that’s worth the investment — and it includes two brush heads.

Good dental hygiene is important to your overall health and your professional appearance. I’ve had great feedback from my dentist and hygienist ever since I starting using mine a few years ago. In my opinion Sonicare is a great product, and the DiamondClean with its travel case is worth the space that it will take in your carryon.

Do you use Sonicare DiamondClean or another related Philips product? Share your comments and review with us!