OBJECTIVE: In an in-vitro experimental set-up, we tested the efficacy of different electric toothbrushes in cleaning teeth with a multibracket appliance. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The efficacy of three sonic and four rotating toothbrushes were compared; the brushes removed artificial plaque from plastic teeth. The amount of removed plaque substitute was determined via a comparative photo-analysis with one picture of the teeth before and one picture after the brushing cycle. Two views of the tooth segment were chosen: one vestibular view and one apical view of the areas behind the bracket wings. All tests were carried out with water, elmex and Pearls and Dents as brushing media. RESULTS: The data showed greater brushing efficacy when Pearls and Dents toothpaste was used. The Sonicare toothbrush was the most efficient. The Sonicmax and rotating Oral-B ProfessionalCare 7000 were also very efficacious. On average, all the other toothbrushes performed less well. All toothbrushes were capable of brushing the undercut areas behind the bracket wings, with plaque removal being the greatest when the Sonicare toothbrush was used together with Pearls and Dents. CONCLUSIONS: The best electric toothbrushes did not demonstrate good tooth cleaning. Longer brushing times, mastery of the proper brushing technique, and/or special toothbrush heads are absolutely necessary.