Considering switching to an electric toothbrush, or upgrading? New high-end models may be better long-term bets than cheaper options, as they are robust, easy to use and often have helpful features.

I tested the Philips Sonicare DiamondClean and Oral B’s Genius 9000. Both have several modes, including "sensitive" and "gum care", and prompt users to move onto the next quadrant of teeth at 30-second intervals during a two-minute clean. It’s a very effective aid for doing a thorough job. Their small charging stands (plus an inductive charging glass for the Philips) require little bench space and there’s also the option of charging them in the sturdy travel cases included: the Philips by USB or powerpoint, the Oral B by powerpoint only, though you can simultaneously charge a smartphone via its case.

This is handy if using the Oral B in conjunction with its app. Your phone can be mounted on the travel-case lid, or on a mirror using the provided device that’s extremely secure but perhaps too fiddly to inspire constant use. Using your phone’s camera and the brush’s Bluetooth connection, the app provides a real-time visual representation of brushing performance, among other feedback and reminders that encourage good dental hygiene.