The FOREO ISSA 4 electric toothbrush can last up to 365 days on a single USB charge, according to the brand, and has impressed this reviewer with its ease of use and gentle cleaning action.
A different kind of electric toothbrush
The ISSA 4 looks unlike any electric toothbrush I've owned before, with a bright pink version that isn't likely to get lost in the bathroom cabinet. The brush head is hybrid, made from soft silicone surrounding firmer PBT polymer bristles, rather than the small round head found on many electric toothbrushes.
This design allows for natural brushing movements similar to a manual toothbrush, while the Sonic Pulse technology delivers up to 11,000 pulsations per minute. The reverse of the brush can be used to clean the tongue and cheeks, providing what FOREO describes as a complete 360-degree clean.
Three modes and a long battery life
The toothbrush offers three brushing modes: Sensitive, Deep Clean, and Whitening. Sensitive uses lower intensity, Deep Clean targets plaque and surface stains, and Whitening increases intensity for discoloured teeth. An indicator light signals when to move to another area of the mouth.
The battery life is a major selling point, eliminating the need for constant charging and making it convenient for travel. FOREO says the brush head only needs replacing every six months.
Clinical claims and value
FOREO says the ISSA 4 underwent third-party clinical testing with twice-daily use for four weeks, showing a 140% improvement in overall oral hygiene, 30% more plaque removal compared with a manual toothbrush, and a reduction in gingivitis. These results are not independently verified by this reviewer, but the brushing experience felt gentle and left the mouth feeling clean.
Retailing at £89, the toothbrush is not cheap, and the bright colours may not suit everyone. However, the three modes, easy brushing process, and extraordinary battery life make it a recommended upgrade from a manual toothbrush. For a cheaper alternative, the Ordo Sonic electric toothbrush is available from Boots for £39.99. The FOREO ISSA 4 is available online in a choice of colours.
