We Tried FOREO’s New Silicone Electric Toothbrush—and We’re Never Going Back

1. The totally seamless setup

With so many bells and whistles, many electric toothbrushes out there seem much too complicated. Which is why I was so impressed with the smooth ISSA 3 setup. Once opened, there’s a QR code that took me straight to an easy-to-follow user manual. Then, I just plugged the ISSA 3 in to charge using the USB cable (like the same way I charge my iPhone). The bottom light started blinking and stopped when the charge was full, after about an hour. That was it! But here’s the best part: One charge lasts for an entire 365 days. Seriously, no carrying around a bulky charger or worrying about your brush running out of juice. Plus, it has a built-in timer, travel lock and sleek case for easy on-the-go convenience. Consider me already impressed.

2. The gentle and effective technology

After charging, I applied my toothpaste to the bacteria-resistant hybrid wave brush head, which is specially designed with PBT bristles that remove plaque, surrounded by a ring of ultra-hygienic soft silicone bristles that are super-gentle on teeth and gums. The ISSA 3 is an electric toothbrush practically made for sensitive teeth and gums—and I could feel the difference right away. Plus, it’s actually been backed by clinical studies: “Using a toothbrush with T-Sonic tech versus a normal toothbrush is more effective, more efficient in less amount of time, saves money, is environmentally more friendly and gentler on the gums,” says Dr. Nina Bal, a leading cosmetic dentist.

I’ve long struggled with bleeding gums and felt like other brushes were too harsh. But with the ISSA 3, I didn’t experience any poking or prodding, just nice sonic pulsations I could control to fit my needs. In fact, the ISSA 3 has 16 different intensities of sonic pulse technology that efficiently remove plaque, so you can totally customize it to your needs. Bonus: They also make a silicone toothbrush for kids, as well as an ISSA baby, which are both equally gentle and bacteria-busting. Not to mention they’re so cute they’ll make them want to brush in the first place.

3. It feels natural to brush with

After choosing my preferred sonic pulse speed, I was able to brush my teeth the same way I would with a manual toothbrush. I didn’t need to make any awkward movements or brush longer than I normally would. Considering I’m a creature of habit, this was a big win for me. I also love the fact that the medical-grade silicone is quick drying, prevents bacteria buildup and is totally waterproof. (Because I’ve occasionally brushed my teeth in the shower. Controversial, I know.) And since you’re not throwing out and buying new plastic toothbrushes every few months, the ISSA 3 is more environmentally friendly. The brush head lasts for up to six months before it needs to be replaced—twice as long as other electric brushes out there.

Now for my favorite part: the results. Once I completed my requisite few minutes of brushing and rinsed, I tried out the smooth and gentle tongue and cheek cleaner on the back of the brush. The verdict? My entire mouth felt squeaky-clean, like I’d just come back from a professional cleaning. I kept running my tongue over my teeth, impressed by how awesome it felt and the fact that I didn’t have to sit through any oftentimes-painful cleaning methods to achieve it. I went to bed that night somehow excited to brush my teeth again in the morning—the first time I could say that.

After using the FOREO ISSA 3 for a few weeks now, I’m pretty much addicted to my cool-looking, clean-feeling electric toothbrush and I’m never going back. Try it and I can confidently say you’ll feel the same way too.