The Waterpik Ultra Water Flosser has been a core staple in the popular Waterpik flossing line for over a decade. It boasts all the benefits of water flossing in an inexpensive, no-frills device (view on Amazon).
Waterpik is the #1 recommended water flosser brand among dental professionals. Having invented the water in 1962, their continued innovation means that they continue to be the most recognised water flossing brand.
However, with over 20 different products to choose from, it is difficult to know which Waterpik to buy. All Waterpiks are effective but some come with a high price tag, so doing your research can help you get the best for your money.
In this Waterpik Ultra review, we cover everything you need to know when deciding if the Waterpik Ultra is right for you.
Performance
- Removes up to 99.9% of plaque from treated areas
- Clinically proven to improve gum health up to 50% more than string floss
- 3x more effective clean around braces
How does the Waterpik Ultra work?
The Waterpik Ultra water flosser utilises patented Waterpik water flossing technology.
Water is pressurized and then delivered to the teeth in a series of ultra-fast pulsations. These pulsations occur at 1400 pulses per minute – too fast to see, but the perfect amount to provide an enhanced clean.
A range of 10 pressure settings allows each individual to tailor their flossing experience to their own requirements.
What’s in the box?
The Waterpik Ultra comes with:
- 1 Waterpik Ultra flossing unit
- 2 Classic Jet tips (JT-100E)
- 1 Pik Pocket tip (PP-100E)
- 1 Plaque Seeker tip (PS-100E)
- 1 Orthodontic tip (OD-100E)
- 1 Toothbrush tip (TB-100E)
View the range of replacement tips here.
Key Features of the Waterpik Ultra
| Feature | Waterpik Ultra (WP-100) |
|---|---|
| Pressure Settings | 10 (10 to 100psi) |
| Pulses per Minute | 1400 |
| Reservoir | 90 seconds of flossing time (22 ounces) |
| Rotating Tip | 360 degrees |
| Tips Included | 6 |
Waterpik Ultra Pros and Cons
Pros
- Achieves results with a no-frills approach
- Range of included tips provides specialized cleaning for almost anyone
- Updated technology makes it quieter and smaller than previous models
- Inexpensive
Cons
- Lacks advanced features such as timer and massage mode
- Design looks more dated than more recent models
5 key features unpacked
1. Pressure settings
The Waterpik Ultra has 10 pressure settings which take you from just 10psi to 100psi for the most thorough clean (view details).
While the highest-pressure settings have the most powerful cleaning abilities, 100psi is often too strong to use if you are new to water flossing. For those with sensitive teeth, the maximum pressures may still be too strong.
Having a range of pressure settings ensures that you always achieve a comfortable, but effective clean that is tailored to your requirements.
2. 1400 pulses per minute
Studies show that pulsating water cleans much more effectively than a continuous stream of water. The Waterpik Water Flosser Ultra projects water that is pulsating at 1400 pulses per minute to achieve an effective clean.
This pulsating cleaning power means that the Ultra is effective even when the pressure is reduced – a great benefit for those with sensitive teeth.
3. Reservoir
The Ultra’s reservoir has a cover. While it might seem almost insignificant to mention, the cover keeps debris and dirt out of the water flosser. This is essential for the water flosser to do its job fully, and not introduce more bacteria into the mouth.
When the reservoir is completely filled and the pressure set to maximum, the Ultra provides 90 seconds of flossing time. This is quite a large reservoir and means that you don’t have to stop to refill while flossing.
Waterpik recommended flossing for 60 seconds, so this is more than enough to time achieve a really great clean.
4. Rotating tip
The Waterpik Ultra features a 360-degree rotating tip (view details). This means that it can be repositioned in any direction without moving the handle.
There are two big benefits of this feature:
- It allows users to easily clean both the front and back of teeth to make sure that all areas are covered.
- It is great for anyone with dexterity issues
5. Six included tips
Water flossers will always come with one included tip, and often there is the option to purchase specialist tips at an extra cost.
However, the Waterpik Ultra comes with a variety of 6 tips that allow you to find what is best for you without paying any extra. The tips are color coded which is especially useful if the water flosser is being shared, as each user can quickly identify their unique.
2 x Classic Jet Tips (JT-100E)
The Classic Jet Tip is Waterpik’s most used water flossing tip, and 2 are included as a result.
This tip works well for almost anyone and is intended for general everyday use. It cleans deep between teeth and below the gumline where conventional floss cannot reach.
1 x Pik Pocket Tip (PP-100E)
The Pik Pocket Tip is intended for use on periodontal pockets and furcations.
The pointed, rubber tip can deliver low-pressure rinses below the gumline, accessing around 90% of the periodontal pocket.
1 x Plaque Seeker Tip (PS-100E)
The Plaque Seeker Tip has a soft bristled head which is perfect for cleaning implants, crowns, bridges and other dental restorations.
It has three tufts of bristles which access hard to reach areas around dental work which are particularly susceptible to the buildup of plaque and debris.
1 x Orthodontic Tip (OD-100E)
The orthodontic tip should be used with braces and retainers. The combination of the soft bristles and tapered tip allow it to clean around orthodontic brackets and flush out debris and bacteria.
It is proven to be 3x more effective at removing bacteria from around braces than flossing alone.
1 x Toothbrush tip
Designed to let you brush and water floss at the same time. Can be used with or without toothpaste.
How does the Waterpik Ultra compare?
Here we compare two popular alternatives to the Waterpik Ultra, the H2OFloss HF-8 and the Philips Sonicare Airfloss.
Who is the Waterpik Ultra suitable for?
The Waterpik Ultra is suitable for:
- Those with braces and other orthodontic brackets
- Anyone with implants, crowns, bridges or restorations
- Periodontal pockets and furcations
- Anyone who wants a solid and effective device with no frills
Specialist tips allow for a more tailored experience than other flosser on the market like the Philips Sonicare Airfloss.
There are other water flossers available that offer more advanced features such as massage mode (which helps to heal gum disease) and a smart timer. Currently, there are no designer versions of the Waterpik Ultra, meaning you can’t opt for aesthetic upgrades like chrome features.
If you have gingivitis and feel you could benefit from massage mode, take a look at the Waterpik Aquarius (WP-660) which also has a smart-timer to help pace your flossing.
Read: Waterpik Aquarius vs. Ultra article
For a more contemporary and stylish device, check out the new Waterpik Sidekick.
Reliability and long-term use
Waterpik are an incredibly well-respected brand, known for their reliable products. The Ultra is no different and users are overwhelmingly happy with the longevity of their device.
As with all products, the best way to achieve great results prolong the longevity of your device is to use it properly.
How to use the Waterpik Ultra
The Waterpik Ultra can be used in just 6 short steps.
- Prepare the reservoir by filling it with lukewarm water.
- Select and insert the flossing tip of your choosing.
- Prime the unit during the first use only.
- Adjust the pressure and pause controls to get used to the mechanism.
- Start to use your water flosser by leaning over the sink, closing your lips around the tip and allowing the water to flow over teeth and gums.
- When finished, remove the tip by pushing the eject button.
For more information, visit our How to Use a Waterpik article or consult the Waterpik Ultra Quick Start Guide.
Waterpik warranty and customer support
The Waterpik Ultra comes with a 3-year warranty, which is a great vote of confidence from Waterpik. If you use and care for your Ultra correctly, it should not break within this time.
While this is more expensive than string floss, it is significantly less than many water flossers on the market, and a small price to pay for your oral health.
If you do find that you need to call upon your warranty, Waterpik have a great customer support service that can be found here.
So, what’s the bottom line?
The Waterpik Ultra is a great choice for the price-conscious shopper who wants to benefit from award-winning patented Waterpik technology (view on Amazon).
It comes with a plentiful range of flossing tips that allow you to get maximum results from your water flosser without having to spend extra money on accessories.
While there are more advanced options available, the no-frills approach means that the Ultra is a solid product you can rely on.
Frequently Asked Questions
What voltage is the Waterpik Ultra Water Flosser?
The Waterpik Ultra does not have global voltage and is therefore only appropriate for use with 120VAC/60Hz outlets in North America and Canada.
If you are in the UK, look for the Waterpik Ultra with the product code WP-120UK.
How can I prevent bacteria from building up inside the tube?
With regular daily use, bacteria and mold should not build up inside the water flosser.
However, precautionary steps can be taken to help prevent this such as letting all the water run out of the tube and also running a maintenance cycle through with antibacterial mouthwash.
Does the Waterpik Ultra remove staining from teeth?
While the Ultra will help to achieve the most thorough clean, it isn’t designed to be a whitening product.
If you would like the option of whitening with your water flosser, check out Waterpik’s new Whitening Water Flosser.
What does WP-100 mean?
Waterpik use product codes to classify different variations of a product. Any product with the code WP-1XX is a Waterpik Ultra.
For example, the WP-100 is the Ultra in white, whereas the black model is WP-112.
Should I use warm or cold water to water floss?
Waterpik recommend using warm water in the reservoir. This helps to minimise the risk of sensitivity.
Can the Waterpik Ultra be shared?
Yes – the removable, color-coded tips mean that it is both easy and hygenic to share the Ultra with family members.
Size Guide
Height (with tip): 9.90 Inches (25.15 Cm)
Width (base): 5.60 Inches (14.22 Cm)
Depth (base): 5.30 Inches (13.46 Cm)
Weight: 1.48 Lbs (0.670 Kg)
- Waterpik Ultra Water Flosser
- Rinse the item thoroughly after usage to avoid calcification of sugar content in the reservoir and hose
- Significant oral health benefit for people who wear braces
Last update on 2024-12-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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