Battle of the toothbrush: Sonic v Electric

By Marie-Antoinette Issa
on 7 May 2024

When it comes to tech v traditional toothbrushes, the former trumps the latter. However, if you’re still debating the merits of investing in an electric toothbrush v sonic toothbrush, here are some facts to sink your teeth into…

Electric toothbrush v sonic toothbrush: Brushing up on facts…

Sonic toothbrushes and electric toothbrushes both aim to enhance oral hygiene. Yet, they differ significantly in their technical approach. Electric toothbrushes typically operate with rotating or oscillating brush heads powered by a motor. On the other hand, sonic toothbrushes employ high-frequency vibrations, typically over 30,000 strokes per minute, to agitate plaque and debris from the teeth and gums.

This sonic technology enables the bristles to reach areas beyond the brush head’s physical contact. Offering a thorough and gentle cleaning experience that can effectively remove plaque even from difficult-to-reach areas, promoting better overall oral health.

Tooth time: Which one should you invest in?


When comparing the benefits of sonic versus electric toothbrushes, both offer unique advantages tailored to individual oral care needs.

Electric toothbrushes, with their rotating or oscillating brush heads, provide effective plaque removal and can be more affordable than sonic models. They often come with a variety of brush head options to cater to specific preferences and dental conditions.

On the other hand, sonic toothbrushes utilise high-frequency vibrations to reach deeper into crevices, offering a thorough cleaning experience that can surpass traditional electric brushes. The dynamic fluid action of sonic toothbrushes not only removes plaque but also stimulates gum health through increased blood circulation. Moreover, many sonic models feature advanced technology such as timers and pressure sensors to ensure optimal brushing habits.

Overall, while electric toothbrushes excel in versatility and affordability, sonic toothbrushes shine in their ability to provide a comprehensive and gentle cleaning experience that promotes both dental hygiene and gum health.

Team sonic toothbrush

Still unsure? Australian Mum of two and entrepreneur Jess Lewis is chomping at the bit to sing the praises of her award winning Glowly Sonic Toothbrush.

” I designed it to help busy women find at least four minutes of self-care in their days. The Glowly toothbrush is transforming the oral hygiene scene and makes the chore of toothbrushing a time of luxury,” says Jess.

Jess is no stranger to pampering or aesthetics, having worked in the hair and beauty industry for years. In 2020 she opened a cosmetic tooth whitening business. And, it opened her eyes to the power of a beautiful smile.

“The confidence that I would see people have, after having their teeth whitened, I just loved it. Fast forward a couple of years and I had my first baby. I really missed that self care time,” Jess says.

“I started thinking about ways I could incorporate some self care into my daily routine. Without having to carve out extra time. That’s when I realised oral care was so boring and clinical. And, I could come up with a way to make it luxurious and fun.”

So, she set about combining oral health and self-care, becoming the first brand in Australia to create the ‘Oral Beauty’ category. And, in 2023 Jess launched her flagship product – the Glowly Sonic Toothbrush.

Electric toothbrush v sonic toothbrush glowly

Coming in a baby pink colourway, the aesthetic was front of mind when it came to designing a toothbrush that would make women feel beautiful and empowered while brushing their teeth.

“I wanted to create something pretty and feminine that would look good on the bathroom counter. Our toothbrush is the only one on the Australian market to have a 200-day battery life. So, you don’t need to have unsightly cords and chargers on the vanity,” Jess says.

It features five different brushing modes. So, the individual can tailor their brushing experience, has a pressure sensor and even a replacement brush head reminder that flashes after 180 uses.

“So many customers tell me how their oral health and brushing habits have improved since using our toothbrush,” says Jess.

“We are passionate about everyone understanding great brushing techniques and being confident in themselves. And what better way to feel confident than with a sparkly smile.”

But the wonders of this toothbrush don’t end here.

Glowly recently expanded its product range to include a sonic cleansing brush attachment.

The user removes the toothbrush head and replaces it with the cleansing brush attachment and within seconds the toothbrush is transformed into a sonic cleanser for your face. Helping achieve a deeper clean as well as many other benefits for your skin.

“The cleansing brush attachment targets blackheads and build up and helps massage the face. It’s also made from antibacterial silicone which provides a more hygienic option to facial flannels or using your hands.”

Glowly won the SHE-Com Oral Care Product of the Year in 2023 and was listed as one of the Top 10 beauty products in the GlossWire Beauty Competition 2023.

Now with a second baby in tow, Jess is juggling Mum life with her booming business.

“It is a lot and it’s a lot of pressure. But, I am so excited to be on this journey and helping women combine their beauty and oral care.”

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