Oral B Precision Clean vs Cross Action? While both brush heads aim to clean your teeth effectively, they have some key differences. In this article, we will explore the differences between the Oral B Precision Clean and Cross Action Brush Heads.
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Last update on 2023-03-14 at 04:34 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Oral B Precision Clean vs Cross Action Brush Head; Key Differences

Here are the key differences between the Oral B Precision Clean and Cross Action brush heads:
- Bristle arrangement: The Precision Clean brush head has a circular arrangement of bristles, while the Cross Action brush head has crisscrossed bristles. The advantage of the Precision Clean brush head is that it provides thorough cleaning of teeth and gums, while the Cross Action brush head can clean deep between teeth.
- Cleaning action: The Precision Clean brush head has a 2D cleaning action, that effectively removes plaque and bacteria. The precision clean brush has a curved shape, with the outer bristles slightly longer than the inner tufts. This enables the brush to fit the shape of each tooth while cleaning, effectively scrubbing both the sides and the gum line simultaneously. The Cross Action brush head, on the other hand, has angled bristles that reach deep between teeth and along the gum line. As such, the Cross Action brush head can reach areas that may be difficult to clean with a regular toothbrush.
- Brush head size: The Precision Clean brush head is smaller than the Cross Action brush head, making it easier to manoeuvre in the mouth and can therefore be used to clean specific areas of the mouth, while the Cross Action brush head covers a larger area of the mouth.
- Sensitivity: The Precision Clean brush head is gentler on teeth and gums than the Cross Action brush head due to its traditional bristle design, without any angled or MicroPulse bristles that can be more aggressive, making it a better option for those with sensitive teeth or gums. It can be used even if you are prone to gum bleeding, unlike the Cross Action brush head which may cause discomfort if you have sensitive teeth or gums.
Below we explore in more detail these key differences below:
Last update on 2023-03-14 at 04:34 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
1. Introduction
Oral B is a trusted brand when it comes to oral hygiene. It offers a range of electric toothbrushes and brush heads to meet the specific needs of its customers. Among its most popular brush heads are the Precision Clean and Cross Action. These brush heads are designed to clean teeth effectively, but they have some key differences that we will explore in this article.
2. Oral B Precision Clean Brush Head
2.1 Design
The Oral B Precision Clean Brush Head has a round shape and is designed to fit perfectly on the tooth surface. The brush head is small enough to clean hard-to-reach areas such as the back molars. It has a blue bristle color indicator that fades away over time, indicating the need for a replacement.
Last update on 2023-03-14 at 04:34 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
2.2 Bristles
The bristles of the Precision Clean Brush Head are arranged in a circular pattern, which helps to clean the teeth and remove plaque effectively. The bristles are made of soft, rounded-end fibers that are gentle on the teeth and gums.
2.3 Performance
The Oral B Precision Clean Brush Head has been clinically proven to remove up to 100% more plaque than a manual toothbrush. It is designed to oscillate, rotate, and pulsate, which helps to clean the teeth thoroughly. It also features Indicator bristles that fade away over time, signaling the need for a replacement.
3. Oral B Cross Action Brush Head
3.1 Design
The Oral B Cross Action Brush Head has a unique angled design that allows the bristles to reach deep between teeth and clean hard-to-reach areas. The brush head is designed to fit the shape of the teeth and gums for optimal cleaning. It also has blue bristle color indicators that fade away over time.
3.2 Bristles
The bristles of the Cross Action Brush Head are arranged in a criss-cross pattern, which helps to remove plaque and clean the teeth effectively. The bristles are made of soft, rounded-end fibers that are gentle on the teeth and gums.
3.3 Performance
The Oral B Cross Action Brush Head has been clinically proven to remove up to 99% of plaque from hard-to-reach areas. Its unique bristle arrangement helps to clean the teeth and gums thoroughly. It also features Indicator bristles that fade away over time, signaling the need for a replacement.
4. Differences Between Oral B Precision Clean and Cross Action Brush Heads
4.1 Cleaning Performance
Both the Oral B Precision Clean and Cross Action Brush Heads are designed to clean teeth effectively, but they differ in their cleaning performance. The Precision Clean Brush Head is more suitable for those with sensitive teeth and gums as its circular bristle pattern is gentler on the teeth and gums. It’s also best for removing surface stains and debris. On the other hand, the Cross Action Brush Head is designed to reach deep between teeth and clean hard-to-reach areas, making it ideal for those with extensive dental work, such as braces or implants. It’s also more effective in removing plaque in between teeth and along the gum line.
4.2 Bristle Arrangement
The bristle arrangement of the Precision Clean and Cross Action Brush Heads also differs. The Precision Clean Brush Head has a circular bristle pattern that rotates to clean the teeth effectively. It also has softer bristles that are gentler on the teeth and gums. Meanwhile, the Cross Action Brush Head has a criss-cross bristle pattern that helps to remove plaque in between teeth and along the gum line. Its bristles are also firmer, making it more effective in cleaning the teeth thoroughly.
4.3 Compatibility
The Oral B Precision Clean and Cross Action Brush Heads are compatible with all Oral B electric toothbrushes except for the Sonic and Pulsonic models. However, it’s important to note that the Precision Clean Brush Head is only compatible with select models such as the Oral B Professional Care, Triumph, and Vitality. Meanwhile, the Cross Action Brush Head is compatible with all Oral B electric toothbrush models.
Last update on 2023-03-14 at 04:34 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
5. Which Brush Head Should You Choose?
Choosing between the Oral B Precision Clean and Cross Action Brush Heads ultimately depends on your specific dental needs. If you have sensitive teeth and gums or simply want to remove surface stains and debris, the Precision Clean Brush Head is the best choice for you. However, if you have extensive dental work or want a brush head that can effectively clean in between teeth and along the gum line, the Cross Action Brush Head is the better choice.
6. Conclusion
Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial for overall health, and using the right toothbrush and brush head is key. The Oral B Precision Clean and Cross Action Brush Heads are both high-quality products that offer different benefits. Understanding the key differences between the two can help you choose the best brush head for your specific dental needs.
7. FAQs
- Can I use the Oral B Precision Clean and Cross Action Brush Heads interchangeably?
- How often should I replace my Oral B brush head?
- Are Oral B brush heads compatible with other electric toothbrush brands?
- What are some tips for maintaining good oral hygiene?
- How do I know which Oral B brush head is right for me?
Overall, the choice between the Oral B Precision Clean and Cross Action brush heads depends on the user’s personal dental needs and preferences. Users who prioritize affordability and gentleness may prefer the Precision Clean brush head, while users who prioritize advanced cleaning modes and customization options may prefer the Cross Action brush head.
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Dr. Tom Bell has a PhD in Medical Anthropology. He has a keen interest in oral health topics and is the founder of dentalrave. He has been an oral health researcher and electric toothbrush enthusiast for over 10 years. When not talking about dental hygiene and gadgets, Tom likes spending time outdoors hiking.