What you need to know about water flossers.
Even the most thorough teeth cleaning session will only clean about 60% of the teeth surface area. The best way to get a completely clean and fresh mouth is to floss every day before brushing. It is estimated that only 10% to 40% of Americans floss regularly and only 5% of the British population floss at all. Dentists and scientists often disagree on how effective flossing actually is but it is blatantly clear that the more food debris, plaque and bacteria you can remove from your mouth the better it is for your teeth, gums and general health. Water flossing devices are a great alternative for people who find conventional flossing too awkward, infective or just plain boring. The Waterpik range of oral instigators has been clinically proven to be 50% more effective than normal flossing.
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What is a Waterpik?
A Waterpik water flosser is a mini jet wash for the teeth and gums. The angled tip fires out pressurized streams of water or mouthwash into the hard to get to places between the teeth and deep into gum pockets. Using a water flosser is a gentle but very effective way to dislodge debris and bacteria from the areas that a toothbrush can’t reach. Many people find flossing a chore that they struggle to do on a regular basis. A water flossing device is an excellent choice for people who want an easier way to floss.
Waterpik has been developing and manufacturing oral health products for more than 50 years and have positioned themselves as the leading supplier of electric power flossers worldwide.
Waterpik Aquarius WP-660
The Aquarius Professional is Waterpik’s most advanced and most stylish water flosser.
With a high capacity, 650 ML reservoir, this power flosser gives over 90 seconds of continuous cleaning without the need to refill the tank. A great feature that is completely unique to the Aquarius is the massage mode, designed to stimulate blood circulation in the gum tissue by pulsing the water flow. The user can customize the strength of the water flow by using the 10 position pressure dial for maximum comfort and efficiency.
The Aquarius comes bundled with 7 cleaning tips –
- 3 – JT-100E – Classic Jet Tip
- 1 – OD-100E – Orthodontic Tip
- 1 – PS-100E – Plaque Seeker® Tip
- 1 – PP-100E – Pik Pocket™ Tip
- 1 – TB-100E – Water Flosser Toothbrush Tip
One of Waterpik’s best products and definitely worth considering if you are keen to improve your level of dental health.
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Question: Do I still need to floss with dental floss if I use an electric power flosser?
Answer: No, flossing with an electric flosser like the Aquarius is an acceptable alternative to manual dental floss.
Question: Is it okay to use mouthwash or additives with the Aquarius flosser?
Answer: Although the Waterpik is designed to be used with ordinary warm water, it is perfectly ok to enhance to flossing experience by adding certain kinds of additives. Safe to use with Waterpik –
- Normal mouthwash.
- Antiseptic mouthwash.
- Prescription mouthwash.
Mouthwash should be mixed with warm water and should not exceed 50% of the total fluid in the reservoir. After use, the unit should be rinsed by adding some plain water to the reservoir and expelling it through the nozzle into the sink. Not to be used with a Waterpik –
- Essential oils.
- Salt.
- Baking soda.
- Iodine.
Question: Is a Waterpik suitable for everybody?
Answer: A water flosser is suitable for most people. Adults, children (with supervision) and people with limited dexterity will benefit from using a power flosser. An electric flosser is especially useful for people with implants, crowns, bridges and orthodontics.
Question: Can two or more people use the same Waterpik?
Answer: Yes, more than one person can use the same machine. For hygiene reasons, users should use different cleaning nozzles. The Aquarius comes with a total of 7 cleaning heads.
- 3 x Classic Jet Flossing Tips (JT-100E)
- 1 x Pik Pocket Flossing Tip (PP-100E)
- 1 x Plaque Seeker Flossing Tip (PS-100E)
- 1 x Orthodontic Flossing Tip (OD-100E)
- 1 x Toothbrush Flossing Tip (TB-100E)
Question: Do the cleaning heads need to be replaced regularly?
Answer: Yes, the cleaning nozzles do need to be replaced at regular intervals.
- Replace the Classic Jet Tip and Tongue Cleaner every 6 months.
- Replace the Plaque Seeker® Tip, Orthodontic Tip, Pik Pocket™ Tip, and Toothbrush Tip every 3 months.
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Waterpik Complete Care WP-900
The WP-900 combines a high-performance electric toothbrush and a full featured oral irrigation system.
The combination of the 30,000 strokes per minute sonic brush and the power water flosser leaves the teeth with a professional quality clean.
The Complete Care comes bundled with 6 flossing cleaning tips + 1 toothbrush head + travel case
- 2 – JT-100E – Classic Water Flosser Tips
- 1 – OD-100E – Orthodontic Tips
- 1 – PS-100E – Plaque Seeker® Tips
- 1 – PP-100E – Pik Pocket™ Tips
- 1 – SRRB-3E – Toothbrush Standard Brush Heads
- 1 – SRSB-3E – Compact Brush Heads
This is a great choice if you are thinking about buying a new electric toothbrush, the Waterpik Complete is terrific value as a brushing and flossing solution.
Waterpik Complete Care common questions and answers.
Question: How many cleaning heads come with the WP900 Complete Care Waterpik?
Answer: The Wp-900 comes with the cleaning attachments listed below.
- 2 Classic Jet Tips
- 1 Plaque Seeker Tip
- 1 Orthodontic Tip
- 1 Pik Pocket Tip
- 1 Standard Brush Head- for all over cleaning
- 1 Compact Brush Head- for precision cleaning
Question: Can the Waterpik WP900 be used with braces?
Answer: Yes all Waterpiks are ideal for teeth fitted with braces. Use the Orthodontic cleaning tip included for best results.
Ultra WP-120
The WP-120 Ultra is the latest, updated version of the popular Waterpik WP-100.
If those who hate flossing, the good news is that there is a better option. The Waterpik Ultra comes with a full complement of tips that are suitable for cleaning teeth, gums, and tongue. The water pressure is fully adjustable from 10 PSI to 90 PSI making it suitable for every mouth. A 600 ml fluid reservoir gives 90 seconds of continuous flossing.
The Waterpik Ultra WP-120 comes complete with the cleaning tips below –
- 1 – JT-100E – Classic Water Flosser Tip
- 1 – OD-100E – Orthodontic Tip
- 1 – PS-100E – Plaque Seeker® Tip
- 1 – PP-100E – Pik Pocket™ Tip
- 1 – TB-100E – Water Flosser Toothbrush Tip
- 1 – TC-100E – Water Flosser Tongue cleaner
Based on the popular WP-100 the WP-120 is an equally impressive power flosser that ticks all the boxes.
Waterpik Ultra common questions and answers.
Question: My gums are sensitive and often bleed when I brush my teeth. Is a Waterpik suitable for me?
Answer: Yes, a Waterpik is ideal for the home treatment of low-level gum disease.
Question: Should water flossing be done before or after toothbrushing?
Answer: It is recommended that water flossing is done before toothbrushing as removing plaque biofilm and food debris improves the effectiveness of toothbrush and toothpaste.
Question: Is the Waterpik Ultra rechargeable, i.e. can it be used without plugging it into a power socket?
Answer: No, the Waterpik Ultra it not a rechargeable model, it must be plugged into the power supply during use.
Waterpik Cordless Plus WP-450
The WP-450 Cordless Plus is one of Waterpik’s simplest and most convenient models.
The cordless design makes this unit hassle free and easy to use without taking up a lot of room on your bathroom counter. The water reservoir holds 210 ml of water, which gives around 45 seconds of flossing time. The WP-450 has a simple high/low sliding switch to adjust the water pressure from 45 PSI to 75 PSI. This model runs on rechargeable batteries so the unit must be charged for about 16 hours after unboxing for the first time. This model will give about one week of flossing on a single charge.
The WP-450 comes with 4 cleaning tips listed below –
- 1 – OD-100E – Orthodontic Tips
- 1 – PS-100E – Plaque Seeker® Tips
- 1 – JT-450E – Cordless Water Flosser Tips
- 1 – TC-100E – Water Flosser Tongue Cleaner
For people who want an electric power flosser that is simply and convenient, this would make a good choice.
Waterpik Cordless common questions and answers.
Question: What is the difference between the cordless Water flosser and the countertop models?
Answer: Generally speaking, cordless flossers have smaller reservoir capacity and are slightly less powerful. The Waterpik WP-450 cordless has a 210ML reservoir which gives about 45 seconds of flossing, whereas an advanced countertop model like the Aquarius WP-660 has a 650ML reservoir giving 90 seconds flossing time. Also, the WP-450 has a maximum working pressure of 75PSI compared to 100 PSI of an advanced counter top model.
Question: Does this flosser replace the need to brush teeth and floss?
Answer: Using a power flosser does not replace teeth brushing. Teeth should still be brushed twice a day to maintain oral health. However, clinical tests have proven the Waterpik to be more effective than using dental floss.
Question: How often does the WP450 Cordless Plus need to be charged?
Answer: When the product is first unboxed, it needs to be charged for 16 hours. This will give about a week of use before it needs to be charged again. Recharging takes about 8 hours.
Reviews
Waterpik WP-450 Cordless
This is a superb water flosser. So much easier that traditional floss. You can get right to the back of your mouth. Our 7 and 9-year-olds use this with ease. The water lasts about 45 seconds which is just about enough and the battery life is superb. To avoid soreness with sensitive teeth just put warm water in the flosser and then it doesn’t cause discomfort. Teeth feel really clean afterward but don’t forget to brush as well! Charlotte Pearson.
Waterpik Water Flosser Comparison
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Waterpik cordless common questions and answers.
Water Flosser Features.
Learn about the features available on the Waterpik range of electric water flossers.
Adjustable Pressure settings
All Waterpik models have adjustable water pressure settings. The level of pressure and control varies between different models and styles. Adjusting the pressure setting allows the user to control the force of the water expelled from the cleaning tip. For users who are new to using a Waterpik it is recommended to start off using the lowest setting and gradually increase the pressure to the preferred level over the course of a few weeks.
Depending on the model, cordless styles have 2 or 3 settings, with pressure outputs of 45-75 PSI. Countertop models feature 3,6 or 10 pressure settings, with outputs of between 10 and 100 PSI.
Voltage
Some Waterpik models have global voltage supplies, this means they are suitable for international use. These models are –
- Traveler (WP-300)
- Kids (WP-260)
- Cordless advanced (WP-560)
Other models are only suitable for the use in the countries they were purchased in. For example water flossers sold in the U.S. and Canada are only compatible for use with 120VAC/60Hz outlets. Water flossers sold in the U.K. are only suitable for use with 240 VAC/50Hz.
Massage Mode
The Waterpik Aquarius Professional and Aquarius Professional Designer series both feature an advanced massage mode that is designed to stimulate blood flow to the gum tissue for maximum gum health.
Water Reservoir
The amount of water contained in the water reservoir varies depending on the model. Cordless models hold 210 ML (7 ounces). Compact flossers hold 450 ML (15 ounces) and advanced flossers hold 650-700 ML (23 – 25 ounces).
Flossing time from a full reservoir of water varies depending on the model. General guidelines –
- 7 ounces (210 ml) = 45+ seconds of flossing time
- 15 ounces (450 ml) = 60+ seconds of flossing time
- 23-25 ounces (650-700 ML) =90+ seconds of flossing time
To extend flossing time, simply refill reservoir during flossing session.
In-Handle Control
For extra ease of use, advanced countertop water flossers units feature an on/off control on the handle to pause water flow. Models that include handle control –
- Waterpik Ultra (WP-120)
- Waterpik Aquarius (WP-660)
- Waterpik Aquarius Designer Series (WP-672), (WP-674), (WP-676)
- Waterpik Complete Care (WP-900)
- Waterpik Complete Care 7.0 (WP-950)
Timer/Pacer
The Waterpik Aquarius Professional and Aquarius Professional Designer series both include a smart timer that pauses the operation at 30 seconds (to alert the user to move to the ther half of the mouth) and then again at a minute ( as a sign, that the recommended 1 minute flossing time is up).
Rotating Tip Control
For extra control, some Waterpik models have a 360º rotating tip to make it easier to change the direction of the water flow. Models that do not have a 360º rotating tip –
- Nano (WP-250)
- Kids (WP-260)
- Traveler (WP-300)
Multiple Users
All Waterpik models have removable cleaning tips to allow different family members to use their own personal tip. Cleaning tips have colored rings on them for identification.
Colors
Select Waterpik models are also available in designer colors. For people who like their appliances to look good, the Aquarius Designer series is available in 4 different colors.
Clinical research on the effectiveness of the Waterpik
Waterpik has more than 50 years experience in manufacturing personal care products. In that time, 25 self- governing research organizations and universities have conducted over 50 independent clinical trials to determine the effectiveness of the Waterpik flosser. Clinical trials include –
- Effectiveness at removing plaque biofilm.
- Effectiveness at removing plaque compared with dental string.
- Ability to clean around braces.
- Efficacy at reducing gum bleeding.
Waterpik plaque removal
Under test conditions, the Waterpik flosser was found to remove 99.9% of plaque biofilm using the Plaque Seeker cleaning tip on medium power setting.
Waterpik v String floss
The Waterpik electric power flosser was tested and found to be 29% superior to conventional floss at removing plaque biofilm from teeth surfaces.
Efficacy in cleaning braces
Waterpik with Orthodontic tip was found to be 3X more effective at cleaning around braces than conventional string floss.
Efficacy in cleaning dental implants
Waterpik flossers found to be more than 2X more effective than string floss at reducing gum bleeding in dental implant patients.
Top choice electric power flossers
Waterpik has a long history of manufacturing and innovating personal care and oral health products. With over 50 years experience, Waterpik has become the leading and most respected electric power flosser brand. If you are looking to buy a power flosser, a Waterpik model would make an excellent choice. Choosing the best model for you does depend on personal preference. Below we have picked the best model for each category.
Best Cordless Waterpik
The two contenders for best cordless power flosser are the Waterpik WP-450 and the Panasonic EW1211. Both models do a good job and get consistently good customer reviews making them a worthwhile purchase, but the Waterpik does have the advantage of a bigger water reservoir which allows for more flossing time.
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Best Compact Flosser
For people wanting a small but powerful electric flosser. This compact countertop has more power and water capacity than a cordless model but still only takes up a moderate amount of bathroom space. The Waterpik WP100/120 has proven to be one of the most popular flosser with consumers.
Best Advanced Waterpik
The Waterpik WP-660 is an advanced countertop flosser that is perhaps the most fully featured home dental irrigation unit available. With 10 adjustable pressure setting and a large water reservoir, this model gives the best water flossing session possible.
Best Travel Waterpik
This compact countertop comes complete with a handy travel case and is fitted with a global voltage unit that making it an ideal flosser for people who travel.
Best Kids Flosser
The Waterpik WP-240 is the only power flosser specially designed for children. Although the basic features and operation are similar to the adult compact models the WP-240 is also enhanced with an extra rugged, kid-proof casing.
Best Combo Waterpik
A terrific all-in -one electric toothbrush and power flosser combination unit. The toothbrush uses a powerful sonic motion to remove plaque.
Waterpik benefits.
Failing to floss not only leads to tooth decay and gum disease. Studies are showing that poor oral health can contribute to serious health conditions.
Learn more….
Brushing is not enough!
If plaque is allowed to build up between the teeth it can cause tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath.
Learn more….
Waterpik for braces.
If you wear braces, you have an increased chance of tooth decay and gum disease.
How to use a Waterpik.
It just takes a minute to give your teeth and gums a thorough clean.
Waterpik Benefits
Flossing with ordinary dental floss can be challenging for many people to perform regularly. Using an electric power flosser like the Waterpik can significantly improve oral health.
Brushing is not enough
Colors
Color options are available in the Aquarius Professional countertop and cordless Plus.
Water reservoir
The size of the reservoir varies depending on model. The larger the reservoir is the longer the uninterrupted flossing time will be. The reservoir can be refilled at any time to extend the flossing session.
- Cordless (WP-450) 210ML = +45 seconds
- Countertop (WP-250), (WP-260), (WP-300) 400/500ML = +60 seconds
- Countertop (WP-120), (WP-660), (WP-670), (WP-900) 650/700ML = +90 seconds
Adjustable Water pressure settings
The force of water expelled from the flosser nozzle is adjustable with the pressure setting controls. Countertop models offer slightly more power than cordless flossers and also have more pressure settings.
Handle control
For extra water control, some of the advanced models have a on/off water control on the handle unit. Models that feature handle control include –
- Ultra – (WP-120)
- Aquarius – (WP-660)
- Complete Care – (WP-900)
- Aquarius Designer – (WP-670)
Rotating tip
For extra ease of use, some models feature a 360º rotating head. This allows easier movement between the teeth..
Models with rotating heads –
- Ultra – WP100
- Aquarius Professional WP-660
- Aquarius Professional designer WP-670
- Complate Care WP-900
- Cordless Plus – WP440
Timer
Selected models feature a quad pacer timer. This beeps every 30 seconds to alert the user tthat one quarter segment of the mouth has been flossed and to move on to the next area.
Models that include the timer feature are –
- Aquarius Professional (WP-660)
- Aquarius Professional Designer (WP-670)
Cordless V Countertop Waterpiks
Cordless Waterpiks are designed for convenience and simplicity. As a result a cordless model does offer slightly less features and performance.
- Countertop reservoir = 650ML giving over 90 seconds of flossing
- Cordless reservoir = 150ML – 210ML giving 30 – 45 seconds of flossing time
- Countertop pressure range – 10 – 100 PSI
- Cordless pressure range – 45 – 75 PSI
- Countertop pressure settings – 6 to 10
- Cordless pressure settings – 2
Cordless Waterpik
The cordless Waterpik is a portable and convenient power flosser that offers the easiest way to give the teeth a thorough flossing.
Features –
- 2 pressure settings.
- Available in battery and rechargeable models..
- Gives 30-45 seconds of flossing.
- Pressure range of 45-75 PSI
Countertop
Advanced countertop Waterpik features –
- Larger capacity reservoirs.
- More pressure settings and pressure control.
- Some models avalable with handle water control.
Compact countertop Waterpk features –
- Smaller footprint
- Reservoir doubles as a cover
- Suitable for travel
Waterpik for Kids (WP-260)
Children find flossing difficult and frustrating at best. The Waterpik for kids is an excellent alternative to string floss.
Features –
- Extra safe design.
- Comes with 2 cleaning tips (Classic tip + Orthodontic tip).
- 3 pressure setting.
- Includes 20 removeable stickers.
Traveler
The Traveler is a more compact counter flosser that is perfect for smaller bathrooms and travelling.
Features –
- Compact size
- Global voltage supply
- Includes travel case.
- Includes 4 cleaning tips
- Water pressure 10 – 90 PSI
- 3 pressure settings
Combination
Combination dental care units offer both a sonic electric toothbrush and power flosser. Waterpik offer two different options the popular Complete Care WP-900 and the new Complete Care 5.0.
Features –
- High capacity reservoir
- 10 pressure settings
- Handle control
- High performance sonic toothbrush with 2 minute quad timer
- Single power cord
Size comparison
From left to right – Aquarius (WP-660), Complete Care (WP-900), Cordless Plus (WP-450), Ultra (WP-100), Traveler (WP300)
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Dental health can have far-reaching effects on general health and happiness. A healthy, happy smile has a proven positive effect on your physical, social and professional wellbeing. Mouthpower.org promotes good oral health habits and practices that will help you keep your teeth and gums disease free throughout your lifetime. Mouthpower.org provides free motivational tools. games, product reviews, and information to help children and adults achieve to the best level of oral health possible.
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Excellent website. Important and valuable info on dental products. I am a retired R.D.H./Registered dental hygienist.
2 things that are not correct. The Water Pik calls itself a Water flosser. It has nothing to do with flossing. It is strictly an (water) irrigation device.-Floss called dental floss is a string used along with brushing to properly clean the teeth. The word flosser has been added to the name to make people think they are flossing, when they are not–and, of course, to make money for the manufacture-by using the word flosser as a sales gimmick..
Little children–over 3 should not be left alone with an electric toothbrush–it is still an electrical device–even though it it is labeled as a kid’s electric toothbrush. For a very young child, a battery run brush would be better–but a battery run brush does not do the same as an electric brush. If a parent is willing to supervises his/her 3+year old using an electric brush–fine-but if not, the child should not be using the electric toothbrush by his or herself. Your advice that the adult/parent monitor a child’s brushing-be it a manuel or electric brush–is excellent-and a must.