# How to reset an Oral-B iO toothbrush

Source: https://brushandfloss.co.uk/blog/how-to-reset-oral-b-io
Published: 2026-10-11
Publisher: Brush and Floss

**In short:** Many iO models with a display have a factory reset option in the settings menu, opened from the mode button. Models without a display use a button-hold reset described in the manual. If the problem is the app connection, remove the brush from the app and your phone's Bluetooth list, then pair again. Exact steps vary by model and software version, so follow your manual or Oral-B's support pages.

An Oral-B iO is a small computer as well as a toothbrush, and like any device it can occasionally get stuck: the display freezes, the app will not connect, or settings you changed by accident are hard to undo. A reset often fixes these problems. This guide explains the types of reset, when each one helps, and what to try before you reset at all. Oral-B changes menus and button combinations between models and software updates, so the steps here are a guide; your manual and Oral-B's UK support pages give the exact method for your handle.

## Try these first

If the brush will not charge, see [Oral-B iO not charging](https://brushandfloss.co.uk/blog/oral-b-io-not-charging) instead, as a reset will not fix a charging fault.

- Put the handle on its charger for a while; a very low battery can cause odd behaviour.
- Make sure the head is fitted firmly.
- Turn the brush off and on again with the power button.
- For app problems, close the app, turn your phone's Bluetooth off and on, and try again.
- Check the app is up to date.

## Menu reset on display models

Many iO handles with a display have a settings menu. On these models, a factory reset option is usually found in that menu. Oral-B's manuals describe opening the menu from the mode button, scrolling with the buttons and confirming the reset.

A factory reset returns settings such as mode, timer and display preferences to the defaults. You may need to pair the brush with the app again afterwards.

1. Take the handle off the charger and turn it off.
2. Open the settings menu as your manual describes.
3. Scroll to the reset or factory reset option.
4. Confirm, then wait for the handle to restart.
5. Set your preferences again and re-pair with the app if you use it.

## Button reset on models without a display

Models without a display, such as the lower iO handles, do not have an on-screen menu. Oral-B's support pages describe a reset that involves holding the buttons for a set time. The buttons and timing vary between models, so look up the exact method for your handle before you try it.

If a button reset does not seem to work, put the handle on charge for a while and try again.

Note: Do not open the handle or try to remove the battery. The iO uses a sealed lithium-ion battery, and opening it will void the warranty and can be unsafe.

## Re-pairing with the Oral-B app

A factory reset on the brush and a fresh pairing in the app fixes most connection problems. The app is optional, so you can still brush normally while you sort it out.

1. In the Oral-B app, remove or forget the brush.
2. In your phone's Bluetooth settings, forget the brush if it is listed.
3. Restart the app and turn the brush on.
4. Follow the app's pairing steps.
5. Keep the phone close to the brush while it connects.

## When a reset will not help

For battery issues, our guide to an [electric toothbrush not holding charge](https://brushandfloss.co.uk/blog/electric-toothbrush-not-holding-charge) may help. If a fault persists, check your warranty with Oral-B before buying a new handle. If you are replacing it, our [iO models compared](https://brushandfloss.co.uk/best/oral-b-io-models-compared) guide shows what each model offers.

| Problem | Next step |
| --- | --- |
| Will not charge at all | Check charger and socket; see the not charging guide |
| Battery drains very fast | See electric toothbrush not holding charge |
| Rattling or grinding noise | Contact Oral-B support |
| Water inside the display | Stop using it and contact Oral-B support |
| Settings or app trouble | Reset and re-pair |

Problem and likely next step

## Understanding the lights after a reset

After a reset, the handle may show a start-up sequence, and the pressure ring may light briefly. The display may ask you to set the language again. If you see lights or icons you do not recognise, our [Oral-B iO lights guide](https://brushandfloss.co.uk/blog/oral-b-io-lights-meaning) explains the common signals.

Once it is working, carry on brushing for two minutes twice a day, as the NHS advises. See [how to use an Oral-B iO](https://brushandfloss.co.uk/blog/how-to-use-oral-b-io) for modes and the pressure ring.

## Frequently asked questions

**Will a reset delete my brushing history?** History is usually stored in the app, not the brush. A brush reset may mean pairing again, but check the app before you start.

**How do I reset an iO without a display?** Follow the button reset in your manual or on Oral-B's support pages, as the method varies by model.

**My iO display is frozen. What should I do?** Charge it for a while, then try turning it off and on. If it stays frozen, try a reset, then contact Oral-B support.

**Can I reset the brush head reminder?** Yes on most display models, through the settings menu or automatically when a new head is detected. Check your manual.

## Buying guides on this topic

- https://brushandfloss.co.uk/best/oral-b-io-models-compared
- https://brushandfloss.co.uk/best/best-smart-toothbrush-with-app

## Sources

- [Oral-B UK](https://www.oralb.co.uk/)