New Independent Research Determines Best Sonic Power Toothbrush in Plaque Removal: Philips Sonicare Elite

SNOQUALMIE, Wash.--April 6, 2005--
Sonicare Elite’s angled neck provides better reach to posterior teeth and interproximal spaces than Oral-B Sonic Complete

Royal Philips Electronics (NYSE: PHG) announced today that in a recent study conducted by an independent dental institution, the Philips Sonicare Elite power toothbrush demonstrated statistical superiority in removing plaque when compared to Oral-B Sonic Complete. The combination of the Sonicare Elite’s slim angled neck, tapered brush head and contour-fit bristles contribute to an unparalleled level of cleaning in hard-to-reach areas.

"The results of this study support existing evidence demonstrating the clinical benefits of the Sonicare Elite in removing plaque" said Dr. Arthur F. Hefti, vice president of clinical and scientific affairs for Philips Oral Healthcare. "In my opinion, these excellent clinical research results prove the Sonicare Elite provides patients with significantly improved plaque removal benefits, thus supporting excellent overall oral health"

The single-blind, randomized, crossover clinical study, which was conducted by Netherlands-based clinical research organization Dentres and supported by Philips Oral Healthcare, assessed plaque removal efficacy and gingival abrasion of the Philips Sonicare Elite 7000 series and the Oral-B Sonic Complete. During the study, 60 healthy adults, ages 18-65, received a baseline evaluation on oral soft tissue, gingival abrasion and plaque 24 hours after plaque accumulation. After using the assigned power toothbrush for a two-minute supervised period, they were evaluated again, and the results were compared. Although both power toothbrushes were effective in removing plaque, the Philips Sonicare Elite was found to remove significantly more plaque than the Oral-B Sonic Complete from the dentition as a whole and in hard-to-reach areas, including the posterior teeth and interproximal spaces.

Philips Sonicare is the brand personally used and recommended by more U.S. dental professionals. For information on Sonicare, dental professionals and patients may call 1-800-676-7664 or visit www.sonicare.com.

About Royal Philips Electronics

Royal Philips Electronics of the Netherlands (NYSE: PHG)(AEX:PHI) is one of the world’s biggest electronics companies and Europe’s largest, with sales of $ 37.66 Billion (EUR 30.3 billion) in 2004. With activities in the three interlocking domains of healthcare, lifestyle and technology and 161,500 employees in more than 60 countries, it has market leadership positions in medical diagnostic imaging and patient monitoring, color television sets, electric shavers, lighting and silicon system solutions. News from Philips is located at www.philips.com/newscenter.

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Flavia Albuquerque

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Philips Oral Healthcare

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