Oral-B iO Series 9 review: Daily dental hygiene, rethought with technology

Oral-B iO Series 9

The Oral-B iO Series 9 is positioned as the most technologically advanced electric toothbrush in the brand’s consumer lineup. And that’s because it packs a level of technology rarely seen in this category, combining a redesigned magnetic iO motor with real-time position tracking, a colour display, a pressure-sensitive light ring, and a companion smartphone app that monitors brushing coverage across 16 distinct zones of the mouth, turning a routine daily habit into a guided, data-driven experience rather than a purely mechanical one.

The real question with the iO Series 9 is whether its additional layers of technology meaningfully improve the daily brushing experience, or whether they remain interesting but ultimately optional extras. Let’s find out in my detailed review.

Oral-B iO Series 9

Cleaning performance and brushing experience

At its core, the iO Series 9 delivers the level of cleaning expected from a flagship Oral-B toothbrush. Regular use results in a consistently clean and smooth feeling after brushing, with effective plaque removal along the gum line. iO Series 9 comes with the company's tried and tested oscillating-rotating motion brush head paired with micro-vibrations introduced with the iO platform and both continue to be one of the min strengths of the brush.

Oral-B iO Series 9 brush head

What feels noticeably different with the iO9 is how refined the brushing experience has become. Older Oral-B brushes are often associated with a more aggressive sensation, which some users appreciate for its intensity. The redesigned iO motor softens this character. Brushing feels smoother and more controlled, making longer sessions more comfortable without reducing effectiveness.

Oral-B iO Series 9 brush head closer look

The Oral-B iO Series 9 offers seven cleaning modes designed for different oral care needs. These include Daily Clean, Sensitive, Whiten, Gum Care, Intense, Super Sensitive, and Tongue Clean. Each mode varies brush movement and intensity, allowing users to switch between gentle maintenance, focused gum care, deeper cleaning, or dedicated tongue hygiene based on daily comfort.

This balance works well for daily use, particularly for users with sensitive gums or those who prefer a gentler brushing feel. That said, if you are transitioning from any other electric toothbrush to the iO Series 9, it will be smooth and natural.

The brush head is slightly larger than earlier Oral-B designs and that's a welcome change as it covers more area in one go for better cleaning efficiency.

Oral-B iO Series 9 colour indicator

The iO9 includes all the core features recommended by dental professionals. The two-minute timer and 30-second pacer help ensure even coverage, while the pressure sensor provides immediate feedback through a light ring that changes colour based on brushing force. A green light indicates optimal pressure, red warns of excessive force, and white signals insufficient contact. This visual feedback is easy to understand and encourages gentler brushing when needed.

Oral-B iO Series 9 colour indicator

Over time, it helps users develop better muscle memory and brushing habits. The pacer works seamlessly in the background, guiding users without interrupting the flow of brushing.

iO Series 9 operates quietly and with a softer sound profile. While not silent, it feels more refined and less mechanical, contributing to a calmer brushing experience.

The physical design reflects its premium positioning. The matte finish, balanced cylindrical handle, and solid construction give it a high-quality feel without being flashy. It stands upright securely and feels comfortable in hand, even during longer sessions.

Smart features and brushing guidance

I think we’ve already established the fact that this is a tech loaded toothbrush with connected features and had an app too. And, that’s the standout feature of the iO Series 9. The Oral-B iO Series 9 connects to a smartphone via the Oral-B app using Bluetooth. Pairing is straightforward and quick and the app managed to find the toothbrush in one go. Also, the app automatically connects with the toothbrush in future provided the bluetooth is turned on and the brush is on as well.

Oral-B app

The connected tech allows for real-time position tracking as well and that too with precision. The iO9 tracks 16 distinct areas of the mouth, including inner, outer, and chewing surfaces. This level of detail is designed to encourage balanced brushing rather than simply meeting a time target.

The system uses sensors within the handle and communicates with the Oral-B app via Bluetooth. When used regularly, it helps highlight brushing patterns and gently points out areas that may need more attention. Over time, this can help users become more mindful of coverage and technique.

The tracking system is best viewed as a guidance tool rather than a strict instructor. But, it does provide necessary and useful insight into brushing habits and encourages improvement without feeling overly prescriptive for long term dental health benefits.

Coming to the app experience, the brush connects via Oral-B app – available on both Android and iPhone and it acts as the control center for the iO9’s smart capabilities. It serves as the hub by offering:

Brushing history

Coverage maps

Mode customisation

Battery monitoring

Brush head tra

Users can reorder brushing modes, disable those they do not use, adjust brushing durations, and tailor pacing preferences.

The interesting part is that the brush has its own memory and records the brushing data within itself leaving the requirement of using the app all the time while brushing. Also, it offloads the data to the app once it gets connected.

At the same time, when used in real time, the app provides visual guidance, pressure feedback, and detailed timing information that complements the brush’s on-handle indicators – pretty interesting.

That said, effective brushing is entirely possible without opening it, and many of the insights it provides confirm habits that users are already aware of. Over time, as brushing technique stabilises and scores become consistent, the motivation to keep engaging with the app can fade. The app is informative and occasionally reassuring, but it does not fundamentally change the outcome of brushing.

Display and on-handle controls

The iO Series 9 includes a colour display that adds clarity and polish to everyday use. Brushing modes are displayed with text labels, making selection intuitive. During brushing, the screen shows a timer, while post-brushing feedback is delivered through simple visual cues. Battery percentage is also displayed clearly, removing guesswork around charging.

Oral-B iO Series 9 display

The display is controlled using physical buttons, which work reliably in wet environments. This choice keeps interactions simple and predictable. While the display does not aim to replace the smartphone app, it provides enough information to make daily use straightforward and self-contained.

Battery life on the iO Series 9 comfortably supports everyday use. Oral-B rates it at up to two weeks, and in regular conditions it comes close to that mark. This is sufficient for most users and ensures that charging does not become a frequent concern.

Charging itself is quick and convenient. The magnetic charger can fully recharge the brush in around three hours and supports a wide voltage range, making it suitable for travel. This combination of reasonable battery life and fast charging keeps the overall experience smooth.

Travel case and accessories

The iO Series 9 includes a charging travel case designed to protect the brush during transport. It is sturdy and functional, capable of charging the handle while on the move. While it prioritises durability, it complements the brush’s overall premium package and is well suited for occasional travel.

Travel case

Verdict

The Oral-B iO Series 9 is a refined and thoughtfully designed electric toothbrush that builds on Oral-B’s strengths while adding a layer of smart guidance. Its cleaning performance is strong and consistent, the brushing experience is smoother and more comfortable. And its connected features offer useful insight into daily habits.

At Rs 16,499, and even more so at its current Rs 10,299 price on Amazon, the iO9 is a premium lifestyle upgrade that people should consider for a better dental health monitoring. It is designed for users who enjoy feedback, appreciate well-integrated technology, and want a more structured approach to oral care.

For those users, the iO Series 9 delivers a polished, engaging, and dependable brushing experience that goes beyond basic cleaning without losing sight of what matters most: effective, consistent oral hygiene.