Guide
Oral-B iO brush heads explained
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In short
Oral-B iO handles take their own range of round heads, and they do not fit older Oral-B handles such as the Pro series, nor do older heads fit the iO. The main types are Ultimate Clean for everyday use, Gentle Care with softer bristles, and Radiant Shine with a polishing cup. All fit every iO handle, so the choice comes down to how the bristles feel and what you want from the head.
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If you have moved to an Oral-B iO from an older Oral-B brush, the first surprise is often that your stock of old heads will not fit. The iO uses a different drive and a different head connection. Within the iO range there are a few head types with different bristle layouts and softness. This guide explains what each one is designed for, how they differ, and how to keep track of when to change them. For questions about your own teeth, gums or sensitivity, ask your dentist which type suits you.
Why iO heads are different
The iO uses what Oral-B calls a magnetic drive. Instead of the gear-driven mechanism in older Oral-B handles, the iO transfers movement to the head through a linear magnetic system that Oral-B says is smoother and quieter. The head connection was redesigned to suit it.
The result is that iO heads only fit iO handles, from the entry iO models up to the iO10. Heads for older Oral-B brushes, such as CrossAction or Sensitive Clean, do not fit the iO, and iO heads do not fit those older handles.
The main iO head types
Oral-B sells several iO heads. Names and availability change over time, so check the Oral-B site or the packaging, but the core range has been fairly stable.
| Head | Bristles | Designed for |
|---|---|---|
| Ultimate Clean | Angled tufts, standard softness | Everyday cleaning |
| Gentle Care | Softer, finer bristles | People who prefer a softer feel |
| Radiant Shine | Includes a polishing cup | Polishing the surface of teeth |
| Specialised Clean | Shaped tip | Reaching around braces, crowns or awkward areas, as described by Oral-B |
Note:Head design does not replace advice from a dentist. If you have sensitive teeth, gum problems or dental work, ask your dentist which head and mode to use.
Choosing between Ultimate Clean and Gentle Care
Ultimate Clean is the default head shipped with many iO handles. Gentle Care uses softer bristles, which some people find more comfortable. If you find the standard head too firm, Gentle Care paired with a Sensitive mode is a common choice. Our guide to brushes with gentle modes covers handles that offer Sensitive and Super Sensitive modes.
Both heads fit every iO handle, so you can try a single head of a different type before buying a multipack.
Coloured rings and family use
iO heads come with coloured rings, or in packs with different colours, so several people can share one handle with their own heads. Some iO models also let you set the colour of the light ring, which helps tell handles apart.
Sharing a handle is common, but each person should use their own head, and heads should be stored so they do not touch.
When to change an iO head
Oral-B recommends changing heads about every three months, which matches NHS advice for toothbrushes. Many iO handles show a head replacement reminder based on use. You may need to confirm a new head in the handle settings or the Oral-B app for the reminder to reset; your manual explains how.
Our brush-head planner works out how many heads a household needs in a year, and our article on how often to change a toothbrush head covers the signs of wear.
Looking after iO heads
Rinse the head under the tap after brushing and run the handle briefly to shake off water and toothpaste. Let it dry upright, rather than in a closed case, so moisture can escape. Every week or so, take the head off and rinse the top of the handle and the inside of the head, where toothpaste can collect.
Pressing too hard flattens the bristles and wears heads out early. The iO pressure ring turns red when you press too hard, which is a useful check. Our pressure sensor explainer explains what the sensor does. When you travel, use a case that keeps the head clean and lets it dry when you arrive.
Genuine and compatible iO heads
Third-party heads marketed as iO compatible are sold online. Fit and bristle quality vary, and they may not work with the head reminder. Our genuine vs compatible heads article explains the trade-offs. If you are still choosing a handle, our Oral-B iO models compared guide lists how many heads come in the box for each model.
Frequently asked questions
Do Oral-B iO heads fit Pro 3 or other older handles? No. iO heads only fit iO handles, and older Oral-B heads do not fit the iO.
Which iO head is softest? Gentle Care has the softest bristles in the core iO range.
Do all iO heads fit all iO handles? Yes. Any iO head fits any iO handle, from entry models to the iO10.
How often should I replace an iO head? About every three months, or sooner if the bristles are worn, in line with Oral-B and NHS guidance.
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