How to use an Oral-B iO: modes, display and pressure ring

The buttons

Most iO handles have two buttons. The upper power button switches the brush on and off. The lower mode button cycles through the cleaning modes. On display models, the mode name shows on screen as you press. On models without a display, lights or icons show the mode.

The brush remembers your last mode on many models. Check your manual to see whether yours returns to Daily Clean or keeps the last mode.

Changing modes

Higher models add modes; the iO9 listing gives seven. Our brushing modes explained guide covers what each type does.

1. 1

   With the brush off, press the mode button to move through the modes.

2. 2

   Stop on the mode you want, then press the power button to start brushing.

3. 3

   On many models you can also press the mode button while brushing to switch modes.

4. 4

   Press the power button again to stop.

Reading the smart pressure ring

The ring around the neck of the handle changes colour as you brush. The iO5 listing describes red for too hard, white for too soft and green for the right pressure. The iO6 listing describes the same three states. Ease off as soon as you see red.

Aim for green. A light, steady touch lets the round head and micro-vibrations do the work. Our guide to Oral-B iO lights explains other colours and signals, and pressure sensors explained compares brands.

The display and timer

On display models, the screen shows the mode, a brushing timer and the battery level. The iO6 listing adds refill reminders for when the head is due for a change. At two minutes, the display usually shows a smiley face or similar to mark a full session.

On many display models, a settings menu lets you change things like the language, the brushing timer and the pressure ring colour. How you open the menu varies, so follow the manual. If you are choosing a model, our iO models compared guide shows which have a display.

Setting up the Oral-B app

The listings describe AI-powered tracking of where you brush. The app is optional; the timer and pressure ring work without it. If pairing fails, see how to reset an Oral-B iO.

1. 1

   Install the Oral-B app from your phone's app store.

2. 2

   Turn on Bluetooth on your phone.

3. 3

   Turn on the brush and follow the app's instructions to connect.

4. 4

   Choose your preferences in the app, such as brushing time and mode.

Charging and the battery display

Stand the handle on its magnetic charger when the battery runs low. Display models show the battery level, and several iO listings, including the iO7, iO8 and iO9, describe a 3 hour fast charger. Models with a charging travel case can top up away from home. Our guide on how long to charge an electric toothbrush covers charge times and lights.

UK iO listings mention a two-pin charger, which fits a bathroom shaver socket. If you only have a three-pin socket nearby, see charging from a shaver socket for safe options.

Brushing technique with an iO

Place the round head on one tooth at a slight angle towards the gumline, hold it there for a couple of seconds, then move to the next tooth. Do not scrub. Spend about 30 seconds on each quarter of your mouth, for two minutes in total, as the NHS advises.

After brushing, spit out the toothpaste and do not rinse. Replace the head about every three months. Our general guide on using an electric toothbrush has more detail.

Frequently asked questions

What does iO stand for? Oral-B has not given an official expansion of the name. Treat iO as the name of the range.

How do I turn off the iO display lights? Many display models let you adjust settings in the menu. Your manual or the app shows the options for your model.

Why is my iO pressure ring red? You are pressing too hard. Ease off until it turns green. If your gums are sore or bleed, see a dentist.

Do I need the app? No. The brush works fully without it.