Introduction
This manual provides essential information for the safe and effective use of your Philips Sonicare Essence Sensitive Electric Toothbrush, model HX3211/12. Please read these instructions carefully before first use and retain them for future reference.
Important Safety Information
WARNING:
- Do not submerge the toothbrush handle in water.
- Do not use this product for purposes other than oral hygiene.
- Replace the brush head every 3 months, or sooner if the bristles become splayed or worn.
- Consult your dentist before using this product if you have had oral surgery or gum disease.
Product Components

Image: The Philips Sonicare Essence Sensitive Electric Toothbrush handle, shown in white with blue accents. This is the main body of the toothbrush, containing the motor and battery.

Image: A Philips Sonicare brush head with blue bristles and a white charging base with its power cord. The brush head attaches to the handle, and the charging base is used to recharge the toothbrush battery.
Your Philips Sonicare Essence Sensitive Electric Toothbrush package includes:
- Sonicare Toothbrush Handle (HX3211/12)
- Sonicare Brush Head (Sensitive)
- Charger Base
Getting Started (Setup)
1. Charging Your Toothbrush
- Plug the charger base into an electrical outlet.
- Place the toothbrush handle onto the charger base.
- The battery indicator light will flash to show that the toothbrush is charging. A full charge typically takes 24 hours.
- When fully charged, the battery indicator light will stop flashing and remain solid green.
2. Attaching the Brush Head
- Align the brush head with the metal shaft on the toothbrush handle.
- Push the brush head down firmly until it clicks into place. Ensure there is a small gap between the brush head and the handle to allow for proper vibration.
Operating Instructions
1. Brushing Your Teeth
- Wet the bristles and apply a small amount of toothpaste.
- Place the brush head against your teeth at a slight angle towards the gumline.
- Press the power button to turn on the toothbrush.
- Gently move the brush head slowly across your teeth in small back-and-forth motions, allowing the Sonicare to do the work. Do not scrub.
- Brush each quadrant of your mouth (upper right, upper left, lower right, lower left) for 30 seconds. The Smartimer will pause briefly to indicate when to move to the next quadrant.
- The toothbrush will automatically turn off after 2 minutes, indicating the completion of the dentist-recommended brushing time.
2. Features
- Smartimer: Automatically tracks brushing time and turns off the toothbrush after 2 minutes.
- EasyStart: Gradually increases the brushing power over the first 14 brushings to help you adapt to the Sonicare experience. This feature is automatically activated.
Maintenance and Cleaning
1. Cleaning the Toothbrush Handle
- After each use, rinse the toothbrush handle under running water.
- Wipe the handle with a damp cloth to remove any toothpaste residue.
- Do not submerge the handle in water.
2. Cleaning the Brush Head
- Remove the brush head from the handle.
- Rinse the brush head and bristles thoroughly under running water.
- Store the brush head in a clean, dry place.
3. Replacing the Brush Head
For optimal performance and hygiene, replace your Philips Sonicare brush head every 3 months, or sooner if the indicator bristles fade or the brush head appears worn.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Toothbrush does not turn on. | Battery is depleted. | Place the toothbrush on the charger for at least 24 hours. |
| Toothbrush does not charge. | Charger not plugged in or faulty outlet. | Ensure the charger is securely plugged into a working electrical outlet. Try a different outlet. |
| Reduced brushing power. | Low battery or worn brush head. | Recharge the toothbrush. Replace the brush head if it is old or worn. |
| Brush head feels loose. | Brush head not properly attached. | Remove and re-attach the brush head, ensuring it clicks firmly into place. |
Specifications
- Model Number: HX3211/12
- Product Dimensions: 1.38 x 1.38 x 4.72 inches
- Weight: 9.88 ounces
- Battery Type: 1 Lithium Ion battery (included)
- Power Source: Battery Powered
- Item Firmness Description: Soft
- UPC: 075020056436
Warranty and Support
For detailed warranty information and customer support, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Philips Sonicare website. You can also contact Philips customer service directly for assistance with your HX3211/12 model.