With 9 different brushing options, the Flexcare Platinum provides a more tailored brushing routine than the 1- or 2-mode models. In fact, Sonicare takes brushing modes a step further by also offering intensity settings. This means that Flexcare Platinum users are fully in control of their preferred brushing modes.
Yet, while electric toothbrushes are becoming more popular, not all features are designed equally. In fact, some toothbrushes can compromise oral hygiene by focusing more on additional features and less on users’ needs.
This Flexcare Platinum review is here to help you decide whether this is the brush for you.
Philips Sonicare Flexcare Platinum Performance
- Removes up to 10x more plaque than manual brushes.
- 3 modes with 3 settings to adapt to your needs.
- 31,000 brush strokes per minute.
How does the Flexcare Platinum toothbrush work?
In contrast to 1-mode brushes, the Sonicare Flexcare Platinum allows users to adjust the brushing experience with 3 modes and 3 intensity settings. Unlike some advanced brushes, the Flexcare Platinum can make the transition from manual to electric brushes easy by letting users choose their intensity level.
To help improve users’ brushing, the Flexcare Platinum uses a pressure sensor to alert users when they are brushing too hard. Importantly, this reduces the risk of enamel damage by ensuring safe brushing. Along with this, the 3 cleaning modes (Clean, White, and Deep Clean) mean that users can switch between everyday brushing and deep cleaning when needed.
What’s in the box?
The standard Sonicare Flexcare Platinum toothbrush comes with:
- 1 toothbrush.
- 2 brush heads (InterCare and AdaptiveClean).
- 1 deluxe travel case.
- 1 travel charger.
Sonicare Flexcare Platinum toothbrush options
The Flexcare Platinum is available in two color options (The White version is App connected).
Flexcare Non-Connected Grey (HX9111/12)
Flexcare Connected White (HX8273/20)
- Up to 62000 brush movement/min .Smart brushing, superior results: 10x more plaque removal and healthier gums...
Along with this, the brush heads can also be purchased separately. It is worth noting that all Sonicare snap-on brush heads are compatible with this model.
It can also be purchased as a duo bundle with the Sonicare AirFloss.
- Use Philips Sonicare electric toothbrush and Philips Sonicare AirFloss together to improve gum health
- No. 1 recommended brand by dental professionals
- Philips Sonicare Flexcare Platinum removes up to 10x more plaque than a manual toothbrush for a deep clean
Key features of the Sonicare Flexcare Platinum toothbrush
| Features | Sonicare Flexcare Platinum |
|---|---|
| Brush per Minute | 31000 |
| Brushing Modes | Clean, White, Deep Clean |
| Battery Life | 3-weeks |
| Charging Options | Travel Charger |
| Brush Head Replacements | 1 x InterCare, 1 x AdaptiveClean |
| Smartimer | Yes |
| Quadpacer | Yes |
Sonicare Flexcare Platinum toothbrush Pros and Cons
Pros
- 3 clean modes and intensity settings for tailored brushing.
- Advanced technology producing 31,000 brush strokes per minute.
- Removes 10x more plaque than manual toothbrushes.
- Smartimer and Quadpacer to help meet the recommended brushing time.
Cons
- Less suited to those looking for a no-frills design.
- Lacks the Gum Care mode offered by other models.
7 Key features unpacked
1. Brush per minute
The FlexCare Platinum brush uses sonic technology to produce 31,000 brush strokes per minute. This high brush speed is what makes a sonic toothbrush.
In contrast to other models like PowerUp, which has only 15,000 brush strokes per minute, the Sonicare FlexCare Platinum brush uses more brush strokes per second, which results in a deeper clean.
2. Brushing mode
The Sonicare FlexCare Platinum brush has 3 cleaning modes (Clean, White, and Deep Clean). Within each mode are 3 intensity settings (low, medium, and high). This means you can adjust the brushing experience to best suit your needs.
3. Battery life
Unlike rival toothbrush companies like Oral-B—whose brushes have an average battery life of 7 days—the Sonicare FlexCare Platinum has a battery life of 3 weeks. Because of this, users can freely brush without needing to leave the handle on charge.
4. Charging options
Like most of Sonicare’s products, the FlexCare Platinum toothbrush comes with a travel charger for use on the go.
5. Brush head replacements
The FlexCare Platinum toothbrush comes with 2 replacement brush heads—1 InterCare brush head and 1 AdaptiveClean. While all Sonicare snap-on brush heads are compatible with the FlexCare model, Sonicare provides 2 options for users to try.
6. Smartimer
While the recommended brushing time is 2 minutes, the ADA note that the average brushing time for Americans is 45 seconds. With this in mind, Sonicare uses a Smartimer to track brushing times and alert users to the end of the routine.
7. Quadpacer
Along with the Smartimer, Sonicare also uses a Quadpacer, which pauses in 30 second intervals. This ensures that users reach all sections of the mouth—or “quadrants”—evenly.
The quadrants are as follows:
- Top teeth: back left to center
- Top teeth: back right to center
- Bottom teeth: back left to center
- Bottom teeth back right to center
How does the Sonicare FlexCare Platinum toothbrush compare?
The listed models include the Smartimer and Quadpacer. It is also worth noting that while DiamondClean Smart is the costliest, both the Flexcare Platinum and HealthyWhite+ have a longer battery life.
Who is the Sonicare FlexCare Platinum toothbrush suitable for?
- Those looking for a more tailored brushing experience based on deep cleaning/whitening.
- Users seeking a brush with adjustable intensity.
- Those able to afford a high budget toothbrush.
While the FlexCare Platinum has 3 intensity settings for each mode, it is less suited to those who are new to electric brushes. This is because the brushing modes are more advanced and may take some getting used to. However, this brush is still excellent for those looking for low- or high-intensity brushing options.
Reliability and long-term use
Generally, Sonicare is praised for its immediate battery life. However, with brushes lasting 1-2 years on average, Sonicare is sometimes criticized for falling short in its longevity. Yet, many still choose to use Sonicare as the brand is reputable and trusted among dental professionals and the immediate battery life outweighs the negatives.
It is worth bearing in mind that correct use of your brush is important. Sonicare recommends charging your new brush for 24 hours before its first use and to avoid keeping it on charge at all times in future.
Sonicare FlexCare Platinum toothbrush warranty and customer support
If you run into trouble using your Sonicare toothbrush you should consider warranty and support options. The FlexCare Platinum model has a 2-year warranty and the following support options are available:
Phone: 1-800-682-7664
Twitter: https://twitter.com/PhilipsPR
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PhilipsSonicare/
Conclusion
The Sonicare FlexCare Platinum toothbrush is ideal for those looking for extra cleaning modes. It is also great for those who are more sensitive to sonic technology and prefer a lower intensity. However, the brush is less suited to those who are new to electric toothbrushes due to its advanced settings.
Because of its modes, the FlexCare Platinum brush targets a wider market than Sonicare’s everyday range as it offers whitening and deep clean options. Overall, the brush is designed to promote even brushing and plaque removal by considering every stage of the brushing process.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the pressure sensor for?
The pressure sensor alerts users when they are brushing too roughly. This reduces the risk of enamel damage.
Can I use other brush heads with this model?
Yes; all Sonicare snap-on brush heads are compatible with this model.
What makes this brush better than cheaper models?
Unlike simpler Sonicare models, the FlexCare Platinum has 3 cleaning modes with 3 intensity settings. This means that users can switch between everyday cleaning, deep cleaning, and whitening, while also adjusting the intensity.
Does this brush need to be plugged into the wall?
No; the FlexCare Platinum toothbrush is battery-operated. However, the charger connects to an outlet.
How many minutes are the different brushing options?
The Smartimer and Quadpacer measure the brushing options as follows:
Clean: 2-minute brushing time, pausing in 30-second intervals.
White: 2-minute brushing time with extra 30 seconds for whitening and polishing.
Deep Clean: 3-minute clean and massage brushing experience.
Can I use the e-series screw-on brush heads with this model?
No; the screw-on brush heads are only compatible with e-series models. However, all snap-on brush heads are compatible with the FlexCare Platinum.
How long do the brush heads last?
Generally, brush heads last between 2 and 3 months. Sonicare recommends replacing the brush heads when the bristles begin to fray.
Does the charger fit into the travel case?
No; the travel case is designed to store the toothbrush and brush head(s). The charger should be stored separately.
Can I use a compact brush head with this model?
Yes; providing the brush head is a snap-on, both regular and compact versions are compatible.
Does this brush turn off or do I have to do it manually?
The brush automatically turns off after the brushing cycle.
Size dimensions
- 7.1 x 5.8 x 3.4 inches
- 1.12 pounds
- Removes up to 100 percent more stains and up to 10X more plaque than a manual toothbrush
- Improves gum health in only 2 weeks
- Customizable brushing experience with three intensity settings and three cleaning modes.
Last update on 2024-04-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API