Comparison Waterpik WP-100 E2 Ultra vs Waterpik Complete Care WP-900

General device type. In addition to classic toothbrushes (including those sold in the form of sets), nowadays you can find hygienic mouthwash devices — irrigators — as well as multifunctional flossing systems that combine the capabilities of a brush and an irrigator. Here are the features of each of these options:

— Toothbrush. These devices are designed for traditional toothbrushing using special bristles, essentially serving as electric versions of manual toothbrushes. While various models can differ significantly in terms of bristle movement (for more details, see "Cleaning Technology"), they share several common features. On the positive side, they are highly effective at cleaning the visible surfaces of teeth, surpassing irrigators in this regard. Some models are even capable of removing dense plaque and tartar with ease. Additionally, brushes are incredibly user-friendly and familiar to most people. However, they have limitations when it comes to cleaning the interdental spaces, even with specialized nozzles. To achieve the highest quality teeth cleaning, it's often necessary to use these devices in combination with an irrigator and/or dental floss. It's also worth noting that brushes with overly hard bristles or intense brushing can potentially damage the gums, particularly if they are already sensitive or inflamed. While the likelihood of such issues is re...latively low, it is higher compared to using irrigators.

— Set of toothbrushes 2 pcs. A set typically consists of two electric toothbrushes, which are often identical in terms of their characteristics (though exceptions exist). For detailed information about the toothbrushes themselves, please refer to the previous sections. Such a set can be particularly convenient for couples or households, and some options even offer brushes in "male" and "female" colors, like black and pink. Purchasing this set is not only more convenient than buying the brushes separately, but it is often more cost-effective as well, especially since there is usually only one charger included for the pair of brushes.
As for sets with unequal toothbrushes, they may include, for example, models with different types of nozzles, or an adult and a children's toothbrush.

— Irrigator. Irrigators are devices that clean the teeth and oral cavity by directing a high-pressure jet of water. This procedure effectively removes debris, food particles, and massages the gums, promoting gum health and preventing various oral issues. Irrigators can access areas where regular toothbrushes may struggle, making them suitable for cleaning braces and providing intense yet safe gum massages compared to bristle-based brushing. However, irrigators may not clean the visible surfaces of teeth as effectively as toothbrushes. Therefore, it's recommended to use an irrigator after regular brushing. Brushing can tackle more persistent dirt, while the water jet can address hard-to-reach spots that bristles might miss. Nevertheless, the spaces between teeth still require dental floss for thorough cleaning.
Separately, we note that irrigators can be both portable and stationary. The second type is more bulky and not suitable for travel, but stationary devices are equipped with capacious water tanks, have an almost unlimited operating time (thanks to mains power) and, usually, are more powerful than portable solutions.

— Flossing system. lossing systems are versatile devices that combine the functions of both toothbrushes and irrigators, as discussed in previous sections. This combination is particularly convenient because toothbrushes and irrigators have slightly different purposes, and having both can be beneficial. However, flossing systems come in various designs. Some models feature a universal handle that can switch between brushing and irrigating, depending on the nozzle used. Another common configuration is a rechargeable toothbrush paired with a stationary irrigator that also serves as a stand and charger. Alternatively, some sets include two separate devices, each with its own independent power source. Specific details about the flossing system's design should be checked separately.
In general, flossing systems are quite expensive, but most often they are still cheaper than separately purchased toothbrush and irrigator with similar characteristics.

The cleaning technology used by the toothbrush (see Type).

Nowadays, you can mainly find brushes with reciprocating-rotating, reciprocating-sweeping, and sonic cleaning technologies; the first two options can also be supplemented with pulsating technology. The main difference between these methods is the nature of the bristles' movement; here is a more detailed description of each option:

— Reciprocating-rotating. The traditional way of moving bristles in brushes with round heads. As the name suggests, such a head rotates back and forth at a small angle during operation. This technology is considered somewhat more advanced than reciprocating-sweeping — in particular, it provides better treatment of the interdental space and other similar places. True, such brushes are still not as effective as sonic ones — but they are also noticeably cheaper.

— Reciprocating-sweeping. Historically, this is the first technology used in brushes with oval attachments. The bristles in models with this operating principle oscillate left and right, like the twigs of a broom — hence the name. Classic reciprocating-sweeping brushes are simple in design, but not very effective. As a result, there are few such models these days, mostly budget devices, and most brushes with oval heads use more advanced sonic technology.

—...Pulsating. Usually this term refers to the operating format in which the bristles move up and down relative to the surface of the nozzle, in other words — they go deep into the head and extend back. This technology is almost never used in its pure form; it usually complements a reciprocating-rotating or reciprocating-sweeping head, providing the ability to 3D clean (see “Modes”). But if the 3D mode is not declared in the toothbrush, it is worth separately clarifying what is meant by pulsating technology. So, in some models we are actually talking about a whitening mode, when for maximum intensity of action the device does not work constantly, but in separate pulses; in others, the term “pulsating” actually refers to the sound mode of operation.

— Sonic. A cleaning technology that involves oscillating bristles with a small amplitude at a high frequency — up to 40 thousand oscillations per minute; this speed corresponds to the frequencies of audible sound, hence the name. This method of operation is considered more advanced than the reciprocating-rotating and especially the reciprocating-sweeping technology. Thus, due to the high speed of oscillations, sonic brushes create a fine homogeneous foam from paste, saliva and air during cleaning — this foam easily penetrates even hard-to-reach places; in addition, the vibration itself is effective in affecting plaque, including in the interdental space.

The number of working nozzles that are standardly supplied with the device. Nowadays, options are quite common with both one and two or three nozzles in the kit; and in the most extensive sets, this number can be four or five or even more.

In many sets, several nozzles may have different purposes. For instance, an irrigator, in addition to its standard nozzle, might include orthodontic and periodontal nozzles. However, it's important to note that models with the same number of accessories in the kit can have different specific specializations. So, when making a choice, it's wise to consider not just the quantity but also the types of nozzles available. Additionally, there's an option where several identical interchangeable heads come with one handle. This configuration is particularly common in toothbrushes. It enables multiple individuals, such as family members, to use a single device, and such a set is usually more cost-effective than purchasing individual toothbrushes for each person.

Types of nozzles supplied as standard with the device.

The availability of nozzle types largely depends on the device's intended purpose (as discussed in the "Type" section). Toothbrushes typically offer standard round and oval-shaped nozzles, as well as options for sensitive teeth (also available in both round and oval shapes), and combined devices that may have multiple functions. In contrast, irrigators can come with various nozzles, including conventional ones, those designed for cleaning gum pockets (periodontal), and even nozzles for nasal irrigation. Devices intended for use with braces, implants and tongue cleaning are primarily found in irrigators, although they may also be compatible with some toothbrushes.

Here is a more detailed description of each of these options:

— Oval standard. Oval-shaped toothbrush heads are designed for standard cleaning intensity and are not specifically intended for sensitive teeth. The performance of these nozzles depends on the cleaning technology they employ (as explained below). For instance, models using reciprocating sweeping patt...erns offer more intensive treatment compared to similar round heads with reciprocating technology. However, this type of cleaning is less gentle and requires precision even for individuals with healthy teeth and gums. In the case of sonic and ultrasonic brushes, there is no significant difference, and oval-shaped heads are widely used because they cover a larger surface area, allowing for quicker toothbrushing. Occasionally, you may come across oval nozzles with a reciprocating-rotating mechanism, which, in terms of shape and application, are closer to round heads.

— Round standard. Round toothbrush heads are designed for standard cleaning and are not specifically intended for sensitive teeth. They are primarily used in models featuring reciprocating cleaning technology (as explained below). In comparison to their closest alternative, oval-shaped reciprocating-sweeping heads (as described earlier), round nozzles offer a gentler cleaning action and better access to hard-to-reach areas. They may not perform as well in cleaning open spaces, but this is typically not a critical issue. However, in "sonic" brushes, round heads are quite rare. In such cases, round heads do not offer significant advantages over oval ones, and their coverage area is noticeably smaller, which can reduce their overall effectiveness.

— Oval for sensitive teeth. A variation of the oval heads described above, optimized for the cleaning of sensitive teeth and gums (including inflammation in the oral cavity). Such devices are distinguished primarily by softer bristles than in standard nozzles; in addition, other design features may be provided to ensure the most delicate and gentle impact.

— Round for sensitive teeth. Round heads specially designed for sensitive teeth and gums. For round nozzles in general, see above; and the main difference of this variety is a softer bristle, which allows you to achieve the necessary accuracy and care during processing. In addition, the design may provide other solutions that eliminate discomfort when used with sensitive teeth or inflamed gums.

— Combined. A head that combines round and elongated (like an oval) sections. Allows you to combine the advantages of both options to some extent. Note that such heads are rarely used as regular ones, in most cases they are produced as interchangeable accessories.

— Standard for an irrigator. Classic irrigator heads designed mainly for cleaning healthy teeth and gums. The working part of such a head has the form of a nozzle of small diameter, and almost all modern irrigators and flossing systems are equipped with similar devices (see "Type"). Often, several standard heads are supplied in the kit at once — this allows several users to use one device at once without worrying about hygiene.

– Orthodontic (for braces). Specialized heads for removing plaque and dirt in hard-to-reach places under braces and other orthodontic structures. For this purpose, you can use a standard head, however, such devices more effectively cope with such tasks. Most often they come with irrigators and flossing systems, but they are also found in toothbrushes.

– Periodontal (cleaning pockets). Gum pocket cleaning heads are designed for cleaning the areas where the gums make contact with the teeth, known as "gingival pockets." These devices feature thin heads made from soft materials to provide gentle and precise cleaning. They are particularly effective for individuals with inflamed gums and certain other oral conditions, but they can also be beneficial for users with entirely healthy gums.

— For implants. Heads designed for cleaning implants, crowns, bridges, and similar dental structures serve a similar purpose as braces heads, focusing on effectively cleaning hard-to-reach areas. These heads may be included with toothbrushes, although they are more commonly found in the accessory sets of irrigators.

— Tongue cleaning. Special heads designed for cleaning the tongue and inner surface of the cheeks help maintain overall oral hygiene and combat bad breath by removing foreign plaque. In irrigators, these nozzles typically feature a spatula-like shape that scrapes away plaque, which is then washed away by a stream of water. Toothbrushes designed for tongue cleaning use a head with a specialized surface that replaces traditional bristles with low-height solid protrusions, typically less than a millimeter in height. These protrusions effectively clean the tongue, primarily focusing on this area.

— Nasal cleaning. An irrigator equipped with a head for nose washing serves multiple purposes, including the treatment of conditions like a runny nose or sinusitis, as well as general nasal hygiene and prevention. The head for this purpose includes a unique "plug" that securely seals one nostril to prevent liquid from flowing back. The nose washing procedure is typically performed with the head in a sideways position. Water or saline solution is gently introduced into one nostril, which is positioned higher, and flows out through the other nostril. The head is then turned to the opposite side, and the process is repeated. It's important to note that while this procedure is generally safe, there are specific contraindications, so consulting with an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctor before using an irrigator in this capacity is advisable.

Apart from the mentioned nozzles, modern toothbrushes and irrigators may come with various other types of attachments. Toothbrushes might include attachments for tartar removal, flossing heads with ultra-thin bristles that mimic dental floss, or specialized gum massage heads. Irrigators may offer specialized nozzles for intensive or gentle treatment, multi-jet nozzles and more.

Models of replacement heads supplied with the device.

This information is valuable for assessing the capabilities of a specific model and for sourcing additional, spare, or replacement nozzles, particularly for toothbrushes and dental centers that naturally use such devices (as indicated in "Type"). Firstly, it's advisable to replace the heads in these devices every 3-6 months, similar to regular toothbrushes. Secondly, if each user purchases their own nozzle while sharing a single handle, it's a cost-effective alternative to buying a separate brush for each individual, although it may be less convenient. Regardless, knowing the model of the interchangeable nozzle will save you time and effort when searching for compatible accessories.

The number of operating modes provided in the device. For flossing systems (see "Type"), this paragraph takes into account the characteristics of the irrigator; data on the toothbrush (if they differ) are indicated in the note.

The mode in this case means the general format of operation, as explained in more detail in the "Modes" section below. It's important not to confuse this parameter with the number of power settings, which are discussed separately in the "Power modes" section. These characteristics are generally distinct from each other. For instance, a toothbrush with one operating mode may have multiple power settings, and conversely, there can be just one power level with several operating formats.

Anyway, the presence of several modes significantly expands the functionality of the brush/irrigator, allowing the device to be used for different procedures (or for several users with different needs in terms of oral hygiene). The flip side of this versatility is the increased cost. In addition, note that with the same number of modes, a specific set of these modes in different models may be different; so before buying, be sure to clarify how the capabilities of the selected model meet your requirements.

The frequency of sound vibrations provided by a brush with a sonic or ultrasonic principle of operation (see "Cleaning technology").

A high oscillation frequency (from 40 000/min and above), ositively impacts the efficiency and quality of oral processing. In fact, brushes that generate more than 40,000 oscillations per minute are often referred to as ultrasonic brushes, although true ultrasound starts at much higher frequencies. However, it's important to note that these high-speed brushes tend to come with a higher price tag. It's also worth mentioning that for specific tasks, such as delicate treatment of sensitive teeth, relatively lower frequencies may be more suitable. Therefore, when choosing an oral care device, it's essential not to prioritize the maximum oscillation frequency but rather consider the individual needs of the user(s). Consulting a dentist for personalized recommendations is a prudent approach.

It's important to clarify that in this context, a full cycle of bristle movement is defined as one complete oscillation, which includes both the forward and backward motion. Some manufacturers employ a marketing tactic where they list their brush's operating frequency not in terms of complete oscillations but as the number of movements per minute, counting only half of the cycle — either the forward or backward motion. This can lead to impressive-sounding numbers in product specifications since the count of...movements is double the count of oscillations. However, the primary performance metric remains the number of complete cycles or oscillations, and that's the value provided in this section of our catalog.

The pressure of the water supplied by the irrigator (see "Type") to the operating nozzle. Usually, this pressure can be adjusted within a certain range, since different situations and purposes require different processing intensity. The wider this range, the more versatile the device.

The lower limit of the pressure range in modern irrigators is around 30 kPa; similar values are set for procedures for sensitive teeth, for certain gum diseases and in other cases where the most gentle treatment is required. 400 – 500 kPa is considered an average level, and 600 – 650 kPa is considered high, such indicators allow for deep cleaning (see "Functions"). And higher values are rare, and they are used mainly when cleaning the tongue. However, it is best to consult with a dentist before purchasing an irrigator and choose a model for working pressure based on the recommendations received.

The volume of the reservoir for water (or treatment solution) provided in the design of the irrigator or flossing system (see "Type").

In general, the larger the tank, the less often you have to refill the device, but the larger, heavier and more expensive the whole structure is. Thus, in portable format irrigators, where the water tank is built right into the handle, the capacity is small — even in the largest models it usually does not exceed 400 ml, a larger tank would noticeably complicate use. However, even the smallest volumes in such cases are usually enough for at least one standard procedure. But stationary models, consisting of a handle and a separate main unit, can hold very significant volumes of water — up to 1.5 L or even more.