Arm & Hammer Spinbrush Pro Clean

Bottom line

The Arm & Hammer Spinbrush Pro Clean does a good job of cleaning teeth and is very durable, especially considering the cost, but it's not entirely user-friendly. The batteries need to be replaced often, and the battery compartment is very difficult to remove and replace. Furthermore, the toothbrush has caused enough injuries to cause concern for the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). For this reason, we chose not to include the Spinbrush as a Best Reviewed product. Other battery-operated toothbrushes aren't reviewed often enough to evaluate their performance.

Performance

Cleans well but is it safe to use? The Arm & Hammer Spinbrush Pro Clean battery-powered toothbrush uses dual-action motion, which consists of spinning and side-to-side movements. Clinical tests show that the Arm & Hammer Spinbrush Pro Clean is more effective than manual brushing. Users agree; many upgraded to the Spinbrush from a manual toothbrush. One reviewer at Amazon.com says, "Right away I noticed how clean my teeth feel." While the Spinbrush lacks the bells and whistles of more expensive electric toothbrushes, experts say that it may inspire you to brush longer than you would with an old-fashioned manual toothbrush.

Although the majority of consumers haven't had any major problems using Spinbrush toothbrushes, the FDA reports that they have caused serious injuries to some when the brush head popped off while in use. Injuries include cuts to the mouth and gums, chipped and broken teeth, swallowing and choking on broken pieces and injuries to the face and eyes. In response to the FDA's warning, manufacturers have published new safety warnings to consumers suggesting users brush gently, discard brush heads after three months use and always inspect brush heads before brushing teeth to ensure there is no damage or loose parts.

Durability

Lasts for years. We saw several reports from users about the Spinbrush's longevity. One reviewer at Amazon.com says, "I've been using my Spinbrush for a little more than two years now, and I am extremely satisfied."

Ease of Use

Easy to brush with, difficult to change batteries. Power comes from two AA batteries that can be replaced as needed. Brush heads are also replaceable and are available with soft or medium bristles. Reviewers at Amazon.com and Drugstore.com say the Spinbrush is easy to use until the batteries need changing -- which is often. Users say it's very difficult to remove and replace the battery compartment. One explains, "Not only do you have to have mighty Atlas strength to get the battery compartment off, once you replace the batteries and attempt to get it back on the toothbrush it's no picnic."

The toothbrush is also loud and it rattles a lot, especially if the back of it touches a tooth. Users say that as long as you don't do that, the brush is actually very gentle.