Philips HX5352/46 - User Manual

This document describes the Philips Sonicare Essence/Elite electric toothbrush, a personal care device designed for cleaning teeth, gums, and tongue.

Function Description:

The Philips Sonicare Essence/Elite is an electric toothbrush that utilizes sonic technology for effective oral hygiene. It is designed to remove plaque, stimulate gums, and assist with stain removal. The toothbrush operates with extra soft bristles that move in a small circular motion to clean between teeth and along the gumline. It features a power on/off button and a charge indicator light. The device is intended for use on natural tooth surfaces as well as dental restorations like implants, caps, crowns, bridges, and fillings. It is also suitable for individuals with braces and periodontal pockets, with specific brushing techniques recommended for these conditions.

Important Technical Specifications:

The device is powered by rechargeable nickel metal-hydride batteries. It requires charging for at least 24 hours for a full charge, especially during the first few days of use. A fully charged Sonicare provides approximately 2 weeks of typical use (2 minutes of brushing twice a day). The charger base is designed with a cord wrap for excess cord storage. Voltage specifications for the charger are located on its bottom. The product contains no user-serviceable parts, and any repairs should be referred to Philips customer service.

Usage Features:

• Attaching the brush head: The brush head is attached by aligning its front with the handle's front, matching the bars on the removable nut with the notches inside the handle, sliding it on, and then screwing the nut clockwise until firmly tightened.
• Charging: The handle is placed in the charger with the power button facing forward, ensuring complete contact. The charge indicator light flashes slowly during charging and remains constantly on when fully charged.
• Brushing technique:
  • Place the brush head on the gumline at a 45-degree angle before turning the device on.
  • Hold the handle with a light grip and move the bristles in small circular motions, allowing longer bristles to reach between teeth.
  • Glide the bristles to the next section after a few seconds, continuing this routine for a 2-minute cycle.
  • Use light pressure and avoid scrubbing.
  • The mouth should be divided into 4 sections (outside top, inside top, outside bottom, inside bottom teeth), brushing each section for 30 seconds.
  • After the 2-minute cycle, additional time can be spent on chewing surfaces and the tongue.
• Brushing modes (select models):
  • Clean mode: Standard mode for superior teeth cleaning.
  • Massage mode: Mode for gentle gum stimulation.
  • Switching between modes is done by pressing the on/off button again.
• Easy-start brushing power ramp-up: This feature is activated by default and gradually increases brushing power over the first 12 brushings, making it easier for new users to adapt. It is indicated by two beeps at the start of brushing. To deactivate/activate, attach the brush head, place the handle in a plugged-in charger, and press and hold the power button for 5 seconds (one beep for deactivation, two beeps for activation). Each of the first 12 brushings must be at least 1 minute long for the ramp-up cycle to progress properly.
• Smartimer 2-minute timer: All models include a 2-minute timer that automatically turns off the toothbrush after the recommended brushing time. If paused for less than 30 seconds, the timer resumes. If paused for 30 seconds or more, or if the handle is returned to the charger, the timer resets.
• Quadpacer 30-second interval timer (select models): This feature provides short beeps and pauses at 30, 60, and 90 seconds to signal when to move to the next section of the mouth, ensuring even brushing.
• Battery charge indicator (select models): A low charge is indicated by 5 beeps after a 2-minute brushing and rapid flashing of the charge indicator light. This means 3 or fewer 2-minute brushings remain.

Maintenance Features:

• Brush head cleaning: Rinse the brush head and bristles after each use. Clean the brush head at least once per week, including under the removable nut. To remove the nut, press down gently on the white area and pull it up over the brush head. Avoid using sharp objects on the seal.
• Handle cleaning: Clean and dry the handle periodically. The Sonicare handle is dishwasher safe (top rack only, without the brush head and charger).
• Charger base cleaning: Clean the charger base periodically after unplugging and completely drying it. Mild soap, water, and a moist cloth are recommended. The charger base should never be placed in the dishwasher.
• Brush head replacement: Replace the brush head every 3 months or sooner if bristles show signs of wear (crushed or bent).
• Storage: If not used for an extended period, unplug, clean, and store the product in a cool, dry area away from direct sunlight. The cord wrap can be used for organized storage.
• Battery removal for recycling: The rechargeable battery is not replaceable but can be removed for recycling at the end of the product's life. This process is irreversible and requires a flat-head screwdriver and a small towel. The battery must be fully depleted before removal. The handle housing is split by inserting and twisting a screwdriver in specific slots, then the electronic circuit board is pried loose, and finally, the two AA-sized nickel metal-hydride batteries are pried loose from the circuit board.

Important Safeguards:

• Do not place or store the product where it can fall into a tub or sink, or drop it into water or other liquids.
• Unplug immediately if the product falls into water.
• Do not use while bathing.
• Do not plug into an outlet with a voltage other than specified on the charger. Voltage converters do not guarantee compatibility.
• Never force the plug into an outlet.
• Discontinue use if the product appears damaged.
• Never use the charger if it has a damaged cord or plug.
• Keep the cord away from heated surfaces.
• Do not use the charger outdoors or if it has been dropped into water.
• Avoid using brush heads with crushed or bent bristles.
• The product is designed for cleaning teeth, gums, and tongue only.
• Not intended for use by persons with reduced physical, sensory, or mental capabilities, or lack of experience and knowledge, unless supervised. Children should be supervised.
• Do not use attachments other than those recommended by the manufacturer.
• Thoroughly clean the brush head and handle with soap and water after each use if toothpaste contains peroxide, baking soda, or other bicarbonates to prevent plastic cracking.
• Do not place the brush head or charger in the dishwasher.
• Consult a dental professional before use if you've had oral or gum surgery in the previous 2 months, or if excessive bleeding occurs.
• Consult a physician if you have a pacemaker or other implanted device, or if you have medical concerns.