I find the bristles are a bit firm, so I have to press a bit firmer with it to clean my teeth well, but when I do it does a good clean. I am happy to be able to use less toothpaste as it is the ionic cleaning action that does the cleaning. I do still use an Ayurvedic herbal toothpaste for the herbal benefits for my teeth and gums. My friend recommended the charcoal heads as they are not too firm, yet not too soft. So I look forward to trying them too.