Nearly a decade ago, my dentist gave me a major wake-up call. Near the end of my twice-yearly teeth cleaning, I was asked the question everyone expects: "Do you floss?" Obviously, I answered with an automatic yes, despite knowing I could do better in that department. But this time, it was followed up with a more hesitant, "And you brush twice a day, right?" Partially offended, I answered with a more insistent, "Of course!"
It turns out that I not only had a cavity that needed filling, but my gums were also inflamed. The hygienist put a mirror up to my mouth to show the area where my gums met the top of my teeth, where I saw an angry redness that had somehow gone unnoticed for months. I left with a warning that if I didn't take better care of my teeth, I could end up with gingivitis. That's when I left my basic toothbrushes behind and turned to an electric one.
Since using an electric toothbrush — ironically, Quip was the first I ever tried — I haven't had a cavity since then. I've tried other brands throughout the years, but when this oscillating model dropped, I knew I had to return to my roots and give it a try.
How I tried the Quip Rev Oscillating Toothbrush
During my testing period for this Quip toothbrush — a little over one month — I used the device twice a day, at a minimum. I utilized all of the accessories that came with it, including the charger and stand. I also secured the toothbrush inside its carrying case when traveling across the country to test its portability.
What I like about the Quip Rev Oscillating Toothbrush
It keeps me accountable
I picked up the universal two-minute brushing rule shortly after my gingivitis scare. Though I'll admit, it became harder and harder to follow over time, to the point that I was slowly ending my cleaning sessions about 45 to 60 seconds in. This model offers an automatic two-minute timer, with 30-second pulses to remind you to stay on track. It also has a fantastic battery, lasting up to 30 days when fully charged, which is great for me because I never remember to charge anything that isn't my phone or Kindle.
Now that I know I want to continue using this toothbrush, I'm considering opting into the brand's refill plan. If I can't remember to charge my toothbrush regularly, you can also assume that I will never remember to change the brush head. With this plan, Quip will send a replacement every three months to ensure I'm getting a healthy clean year-round — and it's only $8 per refill.
It has a smaller, more precise brush head
Unlike the longer, more traditionally oval-shaped brush heads, Quip's Rev model features a circular head. Truth be told, this took some getting used to, as it doesn't cover as much ground — or, "tooth" — as a wider brush head. Eventually, I developed enough patience to focus on one tooth at a time while brushing. The bristles are placed in a special formation to offer a wider and more thorough clean. The outer ring targets in between the teeth and along the gum line, while the inner ring is meant to polish and keep your smile sparkling.
Three speeds = perfect customization
This is my first electric toothbrush with three speed settings rather than just two — and I love it. The lowest speed is a little too tame for me (I like to feel that I'm getting a deep clean), but I can see this as a good beginner setting or a great choice when dealing with sensitivity in that area. I'll talk about the highest setting a little later, but I have to say the medium speed hits the sweet spot. I feel like I'm getting the perfect amount of brushing power without irritating my gums or tongue.
More Quip devices to shop
You can also expect up to 30 days of battery life, which recharges fully within eight hours, says the brand.
This option comes with a magnetic cable for charging, so you don't have to worry about a stand taking up bathroom space.
Experts say water flossers not only help remove plaque and debris but are also easier to use for those with dexterity challenges.
Good oral hygiene starts at an early age, and reviewers say this brush has encouraged teeth brushing.
What to consider
The top speed can be intense
If there is such a thing as a beginner electric toothbrush, I'm not sure this one qualifies. While not harmful in the least, the bristles can feel aggressive when turned to the highest speed. This device means business when it comes to cleaning teeth, so you bet you're going to feel those bristles target every surface of every tooth. I'm very careful when directing this device around my gums, because when pressed too hard against them, it might cause a bit of irritation.
Not as quiet as it suggests
The product description says that the toothbrush is "ultra-quiet," but I think that's a bit of an exaggeration. It's not obnoxiously loud by any means, but if you're going to make that claim, I'm going to pay attention. For me, the sound level is about the same as other electric toothbrushes I've tried in the past. Not annoyingly noisy, but certainly not silent.
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Danielle Murphy is the audience development writer for Shop TODAY. She’s been writing for the team since 2021, covering everything from fashion and beauty to product reviews and sales content.
