1. Soft-grip handle holds charge for up to 2 weeks, ideal for travel"
2. Rechargeable toothbrush cleans with ultra-high speed bristles
3. 2-minute Smartimer and Quadpacer interval timer
4. Removes 80% of coffee and tobacco stains in just 28 days
5. Includes 2 contoured brush heads, charger base, and travel case

Editorial Review :

Essence e5500 includes:* 1 Sonicare toothbrush with 2 contoured brush heads* 1 Charger base with easy-wrap cord* 2 Hygienic travel caps* 1 Travel case* 1 Brush head holder* 2 Year Warranty*

Customer Review :

Skimpy on quality, but worth it for a healthy mouth

I ordered my Sonicare 3 months ago. I believed the first unit to be defective because the toothbrush head would not screw on flush with the base. Ultimately, this would cause a lot of bacteria to build up so I sent for a replacement. Amazon was great about sending a new one right out and I received it within a couple days. Unfortunately, the new one had the same problem, but not as bad, so I went and ordered the Sonic Seal. Check it out if you are thinking about getting this brush! If it weren't for this miracle little seal I definitely would have returned the brush because the gunk that builds up in the crevices is so disgusting. The last thing I want to add to my To Do list is 'clean toothbrush' !!!
I don't understand how Philips can justify selling such a cheaply manufactured brush at this high of a cost.

Well, it's 3 months later and I am happy to report that my teeth and gums are healthier than they have ever been. My teeth are much brighter and my gums don't bleed anymore. I don't floss less, but I'm noticing that when I floss, there is less to floss after brushing. I brush 2-3 times a day and have only charged my brush 3 times in the past 3 months. Even better, the brush itself is still in good shape. I think some reviewer's brushes get worn out so quickly because they are brushing their teeth too hard. You aren't supposed to use the Sonicare like a standard toothbrush because it will lead to the degeneration of your gums! Even though I feel like I shouldn't support Philips for misleading their customers, the Sonicare, for now, has held up to it's end of the bargain. I only hope that it will last more than 2 years. Oh, and make sure to fully drain the battery and then charge it back to 100% for optimal battery life.

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Failed after 8 months.

After 8 months of use once a day by one mature adult the toothbrush failed completely. It will not even turn on. I would not recommend the e5500 Power Toothbrush to anyone.

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Great Toothbrush, better than Braun

We have been using the Braun electric toothbrush for years & have been very happy with it. I recently purchased the Philips Sonicare-Essence for my husband & he loves it! It covers more & is quieter. I also holds a charge for longer

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Great toothbrush

I bought this toothbrush based on other reviews. I am so happy I did. It does a great job in cleaning and really gives you that dentist cleaned result. It holds a charge for about 2 weeks, after charging for 24hrs, so you do not need to keep it pluged in.

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Awesome

This product is absolutely amazing. I had so so so many problems with my teeth over the years and every time I went to the dentist I had to go back several more times to get cavities and such filled.

At my last dentist appointment, a little over 6 months from purchasing this product, I had absolutely no cavities! My dentist and his staff were impressed and I was happy I didn't have to go back four or five more times.

Ironically, I do have to go back to get my wisdom teeth ripped out, but what toothbrush can really prevent that?

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More reviews...

1. Sonic action bristles with power tip create microbubbles and clean away plaque upon contact. Ultrasound waveguide channels ultrasound energy into the bubbles
2. Auto shut off timer automatically shuts off after the dental professional-recommended 2 minutes of brushing time
3. Brushing interval signals every 30 seconds to help you clean all areas of your mouth equally
4. Programmable ultrasound brush head replacement indicator for when its time to change your brush head. The words "Replace Ultrasound Brush Head" will illuminate. Programmable for 1 or 2 users per handle.
5. Battery charge status indicator tells you the level of charge on the battery. With a full charge, you can use Ultreo for up to 28 brushings without additional charging.

Customer Review :

Overrated

I got this toothbrush because at my last dental visit a couple of months ago the dentist said I would be needing an ultrasound cleaning next time if I didnt get to flossing more. So I said hmmm unltrasound. Well it made my mouth very fresh and clean feeling the first week then it was downhill. I tried to wait a month before rating this. But dont waste your money on this overrated toothbrush...

Rating :

I felt the difference from the first day!

This is a worth spending if you really want to keep your teeth clean, and you have problem with cleaning your teeth. I felt how clean my teeth bacame in the first day. Of course, you need to keep using it.

Because my gum is not strong enough to use this three times a day. I use this great toothbrush once a day.

One thing, though. I wish the size of brush was a little bit smaller.

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Ultrasound Works Better

My dental hygienist recommended and the toothbrush using ultrasound works better in cleaning the teeth, or the teeth feel cleaner, in comparison to my electric rotating head toothbrush. Strongly recommend the Ultreo.AAw

Rating :

Ultreo Toothbrush

This toothbrush outshines all of the others on the market. We have used a Sonicare brush for the past 6 years and the Ultreo is far better.

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Excellent product; very satisfied

I had been shopping around for a brush for a while, tried my boyfriend's sonicare and liked it, but didn't love it. Never really was able to be consistent with an electric brush or waterpic, because of tooth sensitivity. My dentist said to be careful about applying too much pressure with any electric toothbrush as I do with manual brush (thus the sensitivity). Then I read about Ultreo and suspected the ultrasonic technology would assist with this problem. I considered investing in the sonicare flexcare and then read some comparisons which said they are comparable, or that Ultreo is slightly better. I was also heartened to read a few reviews which described the Ultreo as having a "light touch" and not allowing for too hard brushing by virtue of the design and the ultrasonic technology, which supported my theory based on the description of the design and technology. I was still skeptical but took the plunge because of the great savings through amazon-- $86 with shipping!

Having received my Ultreo a few days ago, I can honestly say I really like using it and I love the way my teeth feel afterwards. They literally look polished, like after a professional cleaning. And NO tooth/gum sensitivity!! I even think they are starting to look whiter. And I don't have difficulty making it through the recommended two minutes, like I did with the sonicare. When I go to floss, no residue is apparent- it seems the ultrasonic waves get to all the stuff that needs to be gotten, and my teeth feel really clean.

The only thing is that I am still getting used to managing the liquid that forms without drooling on myself... but so far I've been looking forward to using the Ultreo every morning despite this minor challenge, and I have been told by other electric brush users that this is something that you get used to and isn't a problem after a while.

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More reviews...

1. All-in-one Sanitizing, Charging and Storing Solution
2. Redefine Clean with Flexcare.
3. UV sanitizer with built-in charger
4. 2 FlexCare handles
5. 2 Standard ProResults brush head

Editorial Review :

Innovative technology delivers better results. Now there's a guaranteed way to better oral health. It's the new Philips Sonicare FlexCare that adapts to your oral care needs. Clinically proven to remove significantly more plaque than Sonicare Elite. The Flexcare has patented sonic technology. Sonicares unique dynamic cleaning action gently and effectively reaches deep between teeth and along the gumline for a brushing experience unlike any other. Its the only sonic toothbrush with a slim angled neck, contoured-fit bristles and ultra high speed bristle speed for greater plaque removal in hard to reach areas. Sonicare is the #1 personally used and recommended brand by U. S. dental professionals. With the Sonicare Flexcare superior cleaning technology you'll have naturally whiter teeth and healthier gums, guaranteed. Includes: UV sanitizer with built-in charger 2 FlexCare handles 2 Standard ProResults brush head Deluxe soft travel case Travel charger Features: UV Sanitizer kills up to 99% of bacteria* FlexCare System: 3 flexible brushing modes 2 personalized cleaning modes ProResults Brush Head: Contour fit, wider bristle range, & unique angled neck provide increased tooth coverage & a superior deep clean, even in the hardest to reach places 2 Contoured Brush Head Sizes: Standard is ideal for complete cleaning Compact provides precision clean Smartimer®: 2-minute timer helps ensure dental professional recommended brushing time Quadpacer®: Interval timer encourages thorough brushing of each quadrant of your mouth Deluxe Rechargeable Gauge: Green light level tracks battery charge & yellow light signals when to charge Travel Charger: Multi-voltage, compact travel charger UL Listed Warranty: Full 2-year warranty; Philips 90-day better check-up guarantee *Kills up to 99% of E.Coli & Streptococcus Mutans.

Customer Review :

Nothing beats the Sonicare for great dental hygiene

I was an Oral-B user for years until my Dentist recommended the Sonicare toothbrush. This model is so much easier to maintain and the tingling of the sonic vibrations gives a soothing massage to maintain strong gums and clean teeth. Couple this brush with Colgate's 2 in 1 toothpaste and you will have pearly white teeth.

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amazing product

I being using philips sonicare toothbrush for more than 4 years and this the best so far. Buy this product and you will never go back to regular toothbrush.

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best

with difference the best tooth brush available.
(it tickles quite a lot .. but great results)

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That just been to the dentist feeling

I bought my first sonicare about 3 years back. A few weeks back costco had this model on sale for [...] odd, so I splurged, since my older one was begining to have battery issues.

Whilst I am of the opinion that the sonicare brush is the absolute best electric toothbrush out there, this model rocks, it is smaller and more compact and feels more solidly built than my elite. The lithium ION battery definitly has less brushing power fall-off between charges and lasts way longer than my older one. Also the new brush head attachment does not get as dirty and require as much cleaning as the older models.

Performance wize, I love this brush as every single time it leaves me with that slick just been to the dentist feeling. I also appreciate the fact that every time I go to my dentist for a regular checkup, he comments "hmm, there is almost no tarter buld-up, that is excellent". To me that simple statement by my dentist carries more weight than all the "clinically proven" lines you find in toothbrush advertising.

Highly recommended for couples and for travelling.



Rating :

1. Patented sonic technology delivers a unique dynamic cleaning action for superior plaque reduction
2. Gentle comfortable, and effective, even for those with braces or brackets
3. High velocity bristle movement results in direct contact with each tooth to cover more area in less time
4. Includes a two-year limited warranty and two AA batteries
5. Battery-operated toothbrush is designed specifically for preteens and teens

Customer Review :

Great Toothbrush Until It Stops Working...

If you are thinking about purchasing this I would highly discourage you. My wife bought one of these and she liked it so much that she bought one for me too. Within about 4 weeks her brush began shutting off and eventually stopped working. I was hopeful that mine would last. However after about 4 weeks of total use, mine would cut off after about 10 seconds of use. Eventually it completely stopped working. It was not batteries or any other obvious problem. Both were defective. It most likely stems from water in the internal compartment. It was very frustrating. I would recommend going with an Oral-B or a more durable Sonicare. Don't get me wrong, when this thing was working, it really did clean my teeth well, but it quickly failed. Invest in a longer lasting brush!

Rating :

Best & Most Economical!

I have been using this Philips Sonicare for over 3yrs now and it's the best brush I've ever had. It brushes well, is portable and the batteries last forever. You can store it horizontally, don't have to worry about remembering to recharge it and the brush heads for the more expensive models fit this one too. As long as you keep the main body clean and dry, this is a great toothbrush.

Rating :

This is a good toothbrush. Use Vaseline on o-ring... Fixes only flaw.

I have a fish tank, and Vaseline is what you use to prevent water from leaking at each fitting, at least on the water filter/pump, where there are o-rings. So maybe for those who don't know, it's just experience. My first toothbrush leaked (who knew?) and my second I went strait to the vaseline. I am hoping that will do the trick. Also without the vaseline, the rubber o-ring can twist as you put the cap on, as experienced with my tank. Vaseline, as a lubricant, will prevent this twisting so the ring keeps it's intended form and stops the water from getting in. Also Vaseline will repel the water and prevent it from wicking passed the o-ring.

What this does to the warrenty, I don't know. However, Philips needs to be understanding of this situation and accept returns with a bit of grease around the ring, if the unit fails of course.

My first unit failed from water getting into the battery compartment. But I won't count that against them. Philips is exchanging mine for a replacement, no arguments and it took 5 minutes over an IM session.

Smart People they are.

Rating :

No Holes!

I just recieved the brush in the mail yesterday and it works fine. It really is very close to the big one.

The holes in the battery compartment mentioned in some of the other reviews are not there. I think someone at the factory must have been reading your reviews. Also, the O ring is rubber or looks like rubber and seems to make a good seal. I think with a little care it should do the job just fine. I don't see any reason to immerse the unit in water anyway.

I need to travel a lot for work and it is important to cut weight. This brush saves some weight and bulk in my carry on. Also AA batts are always available but 115 is not. I think it will do the job very well.

Rating :

Excellent for the Money!

Overall, I give the toothbrush a strong but not perfect recommendation. It's the best toothbrush you can get for $30.

First the downside, we bought four of these. One of them failed within two weeks. It simply stopped working - even with fresh batteries. After contacting Sonicare, they agreed to swap it out for a new one.

On the plus side, the performance is excellent. With alkaline or NiMh batteries, the run time is far superior to the Sonicare rechargeable units costing many times more. Also, the performance seems to remain strong throughout the battery wear cycle. On the rechargeable units, after you've had them for a while, the power seems to begin depleting noticeably without constantly have the unit on the recharger.

No it does not have all the bells and whistles. But this unit delivers top-rated Sonicare toothbrush performance - at a fraction of the cost of Sonicare's higher end units.

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More reviews...

1. Nearly 20,000 movements per minute
2. Angled CrissCross bristles clean teeth and stimulate gums
3. Power Tip® bristles are extra-long to reach difficult areas
4. Indicator bristles fade to let you know when to replace your brush head
5. Two-minute timer pulsates to signal recommended brushing time. Sustained rechargeable cleaning power - a full charge lasts 5 days. Ergonimic handle and rubberized grip - for comfort and control.

Editorial Review :

Vitality, Sonic Power Toothbrush, Effectively Removes Plaque, Advanced Sonic Technology, Removes Stains For Whiter Teeth, Deep Cleans To Remove Plaque While Gently Stimulating Gums, Safe & Gentle On Teeth & Gums, Advanced Cleaning Technology: Sonic Brush Head, Advanced Brush Head Technology With Patented Criss Cross Bristles Angled To Thoroughly Clean Teeth & Gums, High Speed Sonic Motion, Sustained Rechargeable Cleaning Power, Lasts 5 Days Between Charges When Brushing 2 Times A Day For 2 Minutes Each, No Replacement Or Batteries Needed, 2 Year Warranty, Performance Guaranteed.

Customer Review :

Wouldn't buy it again....

I have had the Oral-B sonic complete toothbrush for the last two years. I saw this and decided to try it, looking for a smaller, more portable alternative for travel. I was extremely disappointed. This toothbrush is only slightly better than old-school manual toothbrushes. No better than the disposable electric toothbrushes. This is not "ultra sonic" more like "ultra weak". If anyone with the sonic complete is thinking of this, it feels as if you're using the low or "massage" setting.Seriously though, i know it is probably not fair to compare it to the Sonic Complete which is 3-4x more expensive. But this brush is 1/3-1/4 the strength. The reason i bought it even though i had reservations about "you get what you pay for" is that since the Sonic complete is 2-3 years old, and Oral-B had come out with several other high end toothbrushes, that maybe the cost of technology had come down.
I'd pass on this if i were to do it over.

Rating :

Little Buzz

I ordered this to replace my old electric toothbrush which had served me long and well. I found this to be very disappointing. All it did was vibrate. There was no other movement. It was like a manual toothbrush with a nervous condition. I should have known from the price that I would be disappointed. I went out and bought a higher priced Oral B and am very satisfied.

Rating :

Gentle, but maybe that's a good thing...

I used to use the standard Oral B electric toothbrush. I found it did an excellent job of keeping my teeth clean and white between dentist office visits.

When I first used the Sonic, I was quite surprised that the bristles did not rotate like they did on my old toothbrush. They simply vibrate. My initial impression was that this toothbrush wasn't going to 'power-wash' my teeth like the last one, but perhaps this is a good thing? My boyfriend thought that the old version is so strong and powerful that there's a chance it could loosen fillings, etc. That's not so much a concern for me because as of yet, I don't have fillings, but for people who do, you might want to get the Sonic version as opposed to the regular Vitality or other non-sonic brushes.


Rating :

OUCH

This brush hurts my gums and does not do a very good job of cleaning in tight places between round shaped teeth. I use a water-pik, which helps a lot, but always have to check again for plaque that the brush misses. It is very hard, and I worry that it is damaging enamel. Will replace it very soon. Very disappointing.

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SUPER PRODUCT

I'M GIVING IT AS A CHRISTMJAS PRESENT, BUT I'VE HAD ONE BEFORE, THAT'S WHY I BOUGHT IT FOR MY FIANCE.

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More reviews...