Product Evaluation

It’s not easy to convince people to change their opinions when they’ve got their minds made up. But, in the case of Dr. Robert Wilkoff, all he needed was Sunstar’s GUM Sonic Power Toothbrush to convince him that not all power toothbrushes are “large, bulky, and uncomfortable to hold,” and not all new product designs “sacrifice usability and ergonomics for fancy digital apps and connections.”

“This product completely changed the way I feel about using power toothbrushes,” admitted Dr. Wilkoff after using the GUM Sonic brush for a few weeks. “The handle isn’t bulky or overly thick, and it feels exactly like a standard toothbrush should. The sonic cleansing function worked as well as any other sonic design I’ve used, the battery has exceptional longevity, and it felt perfect in my hand,” he added.

With its sonic motion and soft ultra-tapered bris­tles, the battery-powered GUM Sonic is 50% more effective at plaque removal and interproximal reach than traditional manual brushes and provides 45 times deeper access below the gumline, accord­ing to Sunstar. Impressed with the brush’s design, including the lightweight handle and replaceable head, Dr. Wilkoff declared, “It’s an excellent hygiene product that surpassed all my expectations.”

Design and Efficacy

“I like the design, color, and efficiency of the GUM Sonic brush, which is very useful and easy to use,” said Dr. Kenneth Wong. Tired of always having to charge her toothbrushes, hygienist Lois Palermo gave the Sunstar GUM a “Yeah!” for running on batteries. “It’s not too bulky and will fit easily just about everywhere I need it,” she said. “It’s great for travel, at the office, and next to my bed.” Hygienist Kelly Swatts noted that “the design is great and the noise level is perfect.”

“I like how the brush vibrates but I still have control over how I brush; I don’t have to hold it in one place like an oscillating electric brush,” said Sherry Morrissey, RDH. And while the handle was a bit narrow for her taste, Morrissey appreciates that the brush is “well made and tight” and was happy to see that no water leaked in­side the battery compartment.

Appreciating that the brush is “space efficient” with no need for a charging base, Dr. Carmen Nelson believes there is “less risk of causing gingival recession than with oscillating heads of hard brushes” and was “happy with how well the brush head held up.” When asked about potential improvements, Dr. Nelson suggested bristles that are a bit longer and softer, and Palermo recommended larger buttons that were easier to press.

Ease of Use and Ergonomics

Calling the GUM Sonic brush “much lighter due to the lack of a rechargeable battery unit inside the  handle,” Dr. Nelson found it “much easier to maneuver for people with tight manual dexterity or anyone providing oral care to another person.” Hygienist Janis Wilkoff “loved this brush” for its “ease of use, com­fortable grip and accessibility,” and Diana Carr, RDHAP, noted, “I think just about anyone can tolerate this brush,” explain­ing that “it’s not too strong as to cause discomfort, it vibrates gently, and its slim handle makes it feel more like a traditional brush.” Because of these features, Carr said, “I would recommend the brush to anyone who has difficulty using a larger, stronger electric brush.” She also expects it to benefit patients who are develop­mentally disabled, as being ticklish or having sensitive gingiva makes it difficult to use an electric brush.

Cleaning and Plaque Removal

“The GUM Sonic removes plaque and cleanses tooth surfaces with excellent re­sults,” shared Dr. Wilkoff, and Janis Wilkoff said it removed lower anterior lingual calculus “very well.” Morrissey would recommend the brush for gingivitis patients as it “cleaned the gumline very well.”

Calling it “a great battery toothbrush,” especially for those who are using their first electric toothbrush, Sandra Hersey was impressed that “it was a lot more powerful than I thought it would be.”

After giving the toothbrush the dreaded Oreos and Cheetos test, Dr. Nelson “was surprised at how well the brush cleaned,” with no orange or black residue after 2 minutes of brushing. “I can’t think of anyone who wouldn’t benefit from using this brush compared to manual brushing,” she added. “This might be the first brush I consider selling at the office.”

Overall Satisfaction

When asked what types of patients could benefit most from the GUM Sonic toothbrush, responses included “teens who don’t brush well,” “patients with dex­terity issues,” and “everyone.” Dr. Wilkoff believes that “every dentist and hygienist should try Sunstar’s GUM Sonic and said he recommends it to “all patients, from toddlers to elders.” When asked if any­thing could be improved, he responded, “Nothing; the manufacturer got it right.”