Half-price Sonic toothbrushes

We're living longer than we used to, say, 70 years ago. One reason is we're not in the throes of a World War. Another is our teeth are staying in our faces for longer allowing us to eat proper food for longer - thus stay alive. Which is odd given the availability (or lack of) of NHS dentistry. But it does serve as a reminder of the importance of looking after your teeth.

The latest big thing in toothbrushing is the 'sonic' toothbrush. A revolution in brushing, apparently, that is attracting rave reviews. Unfortunately you can't trust online reviews. Many will be tainted by anyone spending £100 on a toothbrush having to convince themselves that it's money well spent. The rest are suspiciously praiseworthy. Who outside the toothbrush publicity industry has the time or inclination to review a toothbrush?

However, people we have spoken to are saying things like. 'best toothbrush ever', 'I don't need to floss any more', 'my teeth have never felt so clean' and 'can anyone lend me a hundred quid?'.

So the good news for toothbrush fans is that Superdrug has an up-to half-price sale until 18 March. It's in-store only but if you want to try one of these brushes and would rather spend £50 than £100, that's the place to head in the real world. Amazon has half-price offers too. The bad news is that half-price offers like this simply show up the outrageous overcharging that is going on the rest of the time.

Before you take off down to the High or Cyber Street, here is the latest list of Best Buy electric toothbrushes (November 2007) from consumer outfit Which? Only one is a 'sonic' and number 4 costs about £20 full price.

1. Oral B Triumph 9900 with Smart Guide
2. Oral B Triumph 9500
3. Philips Sonicare Elite e9500 HX9552
4. Oral B Professional Care 7000

Read a doctor's review of the Sonicare Elite

Check the prices of dental insurance

You never know when your teeth may be on show

Comments

[Monevator]

This has become a huge problem, and threatens the whole online empowerment theme of the past few years in my view. For instance, Amazon's reviews are virtually all 4 or 5 out of 5. I don't even think it's the authors who are pushing up the ratings, it's more like why would you bother to write a review unless you were positive about the product? Result - no bad press.

[Chris - N London]

I agree -- up to a point, as disasatisfied consumers are similarly (if not more) motivated, so you end up with polarised perspectives.

That said, some of the longer reviews are clearly thoughtful evaluations -- though I do wonder sometimes where these people get the time...

... a bit like people who respond to online news articles? ;(