In this Waterpik Complete Care 5.0 review, we’ll talk about the 5.0 and the 5.5 so you find out everything you need to know about this water flosser and toothbrush unit.
The Waterpik Complete Care 5.0 and Complete Care 5.5 combine all of your brushing and flossing needs into one easy-to-use device.
But is it worth the cost, or are there better alternatives available?
If you're considering using the Waterpik Complete Care 5.0 or Complete Care 5.5 to update your dental hygiene regimen, read this detailed review to learn all you need to know to make an informed decision on which device you should purchase.
In this article, we'll also cover:
- The pros and cons of the Waterpik Complete Care 5.0 and 5.5
- How effective it is in terms of everyday oral hygiene
- We'll have a look at some Waterpik Complete Care 5.0 reviews.
We hope that this information helps you in selecting the best water flosser and toothbrush for your smile.
Table of contents
Waterpik Complete Care 5.0 review (and Complete Care 5.5)
What accessories are included in the Waterpik Complete Care 5.0 and 5.5?
Waterpik Complete Care 5.0 product features
The Waterpik Complete Care 5.0 (WP-861) is offered in two models:
- White model with blue reservoir
- Black model with clear reservoir
What’s included with the Waterpik Complete Care 5.0?
You might be wondering what is included when you order the Waterpik Complete Care 5.0. This water flosser and sonic toothbrush combination device includes the following:
- Waterpik Complete Care 5.0 toothbrush and water flosser unit
- Sonic toothbrush with three modes: clean, whiten, and massage
- Two toothbrush heads
- Water flosser with 10 pressure settings and a 22-ounce reservoir
- 5 Jet tips: 2x classic jet tips, 1x orthodontic tip, 1x plaque seeker tip, 1x pik pocket tip
- Toothbrush travel case
- Case for storing jet tips
- Instruction manual
As you can see, the Waterpik Complete Care 5.0 includes a lot of accessories.
Waterpik Complete Care 5.5 product features
The Waterpik Complete Care 5.5 (WP-811) comes in two colors:
- White model with blue reservoir
- Black model with clear reservoir
Here is what’s included in the Waterpik Complete Care 5.5:
- Waterpik Complete Care 5.5 toothbrush and water flosser unit
- Water flosser, including five water flossing tips
- Water pressure control system with 10 settings
- 22-ounce reservoir (gives you 90 seconds of flossing time)
- Oscillating toothbrush, including two brush heads, three oscillating modes, 30-second quadrant pacer with a 2-minute timer
- Toothbrush travel case
- Recharge indicator display
- 2-year warranty
Waterpik's Complete Care 5.0 and Complete Care 5.5 water flossers are by far the most visually attractive models Waterpik ever brought to the market. You could even argue that these are the most elegant water flossers out there.
Unfortunately, this attractive appearance may come at the expense of some functionality and quality. We'll go over our concerns in detail in this Waterpik Complete Care review.
Waterpik Complete Care 5.0 and 5.5 in-depth review
In this Waterpik Complete Care 5.0 and Complete Care 5.5 review, we'll go over all of the major benefits and drawbacks we discovered with these devices.
Design ★★★★★ (5/5 stars)
The Waterpik Complete Care 5.0 and 5.5 have an incredibly stylish look. The units are intended to be positioned on your bathroom counter permanently. We are glad to see that Waterpik spent some time perfecting the design because the water flosser would be on sight for any family members or visitors that use your restroom.
If you have the previous version (WP-900), you are well aware that the unit's visual appearance was not that great, and it took up a lot of space on your bathroom counter.
With the new Waterpik Complete Care versions 5.0 and 5.5, the appearance is much more attractive, and they're also only about half the size of the previous model. Waterpik accomplished this by relocating the pressure control wheel to the unit's side, resulting in a significant decrease in size.
The devices appear slim and elegant. With the control dials relocated to the side of the unit, they look cleaner and more polished. Both the Waterpik Complete Care 5.0 and the Waterpik Complete Care 5.5 come in black and white versions.
In particular, the black variants have a very elegant appearance. However, keep in mind that toothpaste and water traces are more noticeable on a dark surface. This means that if you want your device to seem nice and clean, you'll have to wash it more often. As a result, the “white” option is the most practical alternative.
Water flosser ★★★★☆ (4/5 stars)
The Waterpik Complete Care 5.0 and 5.5 give you control over the water pressure using the dial on the left side of the unit. The water pressure is a soothing 10 PSI at the lowest level and a tremendous 100 PSI at the maximum setting. According to research, removing 99.9% of plaque requires a pressure of at least 70 PSI.
The reservoir has a capacity of 22 ounces and a flow rate of 13 ounces per minute, giving you around 90 seconds of water flossing time before you need to refill it. Both Water Complete Care 5.0 and Complete Care 5.5 provide you with five jet tips, which include: two classic flossing tips, one orthodontic tip, one plaque seeker tip, and one pik pocket tip.
The Waterpik Complete Care 5.0 and 5.5 water flossers differ from previous Waterpik models in that they do not have a separate replacement tip storage compartment. This design adjustment was made to reduce the flosser's size and make the device lighter.
If you want to be critical, you may accuse Waterpik of trading functionality for appearances, but we don't believe this is a fair critique. The Waterpik Complete Care WP-900 series has you covered if having a usable replacement tip is vital to you.
There are, however, some problems to address.
It's worth mentioning that there have been some reports of water seeping underneath the tank. However, Waterpik has the most experience on the market when it comes to water flossers, and these complaints should be rare.
If the leakage is minimal, just empty the tank when you’ve finished flossing so that water doesn't spill onto your counter.
Toothbrush ★★★☆☆ (3/5 stars)
The Waterpik Complete Care 5.0 and the 5.5 are quite similar in appearance. Their difference is merely in their toothbrushes.
The Waterpik Complete Care 5.0 (WP-861w & WP-862w) includes a sonic toothbrush (called the Triple Sonic), while the Waterpik Complete Care 5.5 (WP-811 & WP-812) includes an oscillating toothbrush.
The features of sonic and oscillating toothbrushes are as follows:
- The toothbrushes are both water-resistant and may be used when showering.
- Both toothbrushes have a quadrant timer. To signal the recommended brushing session length, it alerts you every 30 seconds for a total of 2 minutes with a short vibration.
- The Waterpik Complete Care 5.0's Triple Sonic toothbrush has a stroke rate of 31,000 per minute.
The Sensonic Toothbrush (included in the Complete Care WP-900, WP-940, and WP-950 versions) had only two speed settings, which was one of the most common complaints. Waterpik seems to have attempted to address this issue by including three modes in the Triple Sonic.
They didn't, however, use the easy low/medium/high method to suit diverse interests. In the Waterpik Complete Care 5.0's Triple Sonic toothbrush, they called the three modes “Clean Mode,” “Massage Mode,” and “Whiten Mode.”
Surprisingly, the three settings on the Complete Care 5.5 oscillating toothbrush are named “High,” “Low,” and “Massage.” We're not certain whether the modes are diverse or if they've just been given a fancier name.
The high-speed setting is the “Clean” mode, and the low-speed setting is the “Whiten Mode.” The “whiten mode”, according to Waterpik, softly eliminates surface stains and whitens teeth naturally. However, they don't explain why the “Whiten Mode” does it better than the “Clean Mode”. This seems to be more of a marketing gimmick.
Both include a massage function that is meant to improve gum stimulation and circulation. Although this may be true, we actually think the water jet's gum massage is better. This eliminates the massage mode, leaving you with two speed options yet again.
The Sensonic had rubberized sides that made it easier to hold. Waterpiks Complete Cares' Triple Sonic, on the other hand, is designed using shiny plastic materials, which are more slippery. It has a nicer appearance, but it is less useful.
Quality ★★★☆☆ (3/5 stars)
Overall, the Waterpik Complete Care 5.0 and 5.5 are dependable devices, and Waterpik backs this up with a two-year warranty. Further details on the warranty are provided in the Waterpik Complete Care instruction manual.
However, we have some concerns about the new Oscillating and Triple Sonic toothbrushes:
All high-quality electric toothbrushes, including some of Waterpik's previous models, are typically made of metal. But with the Waterpik Complete Care series, we see that the shaft is made from plastic.
This will almost certainly shorten the product's lifespan since it’s the most mechanically active component of the device. We don't know why a less durable material was chosen instead of metal, but it's most likely to save money on manufacturing.
However, we think that when consumers pay a premium price, they also expect a high level of build quality.
In all sincerity, we don't believe the Triple Sonic and Oscillating brushes are superior to the earlier Waterpik toothbrushes, despite their wonderful designs and improved indications on the front. The Waterpik Complete Care seems to be of lower build quality than the previous Waterpik toothbrushes.
Battery lifetime & reliability ★★☆☆☆ (2/5 stars)
There are a few more flaws in addition to the primary issues in terms of build quality. The toothbrush's battery is not replaceable, so when it runs out, you'll have to replace the whole brush, or in this case, the whole unit.
When you look at the Waterpik Complete Care 5.0 and Complete Care 5.5 reviews on Amazon, you will find that almost every negative review mentions the short battery life.
Many customers are complaining that the battery stopped working after 9–12 months after purchasing the unit. Some users are even saying the battery has already stopped working before the change of the replacement head was due.
Here's what a customer on Amazon is saying about the battery of the Waterpik Complete Care 5.0:
2.0 out of 5 stars: Toothbrush part wouldn’t charge after 9 months
Waterpik part works well but the toothbrush quit charging within first year of buying.
Review by Pam Serfass
It is essential to note that the toothbrush should not be kept on the charger. Leaving it there all the time overcharges the battery and lowers its life drastically. Only use the charger when it's time to recharge it. (Keeping your toothbrush plugged in even voids the guarantee!)
This might be due to a low-quality battery in the Waterpik Complete Care 5.0 and 5.5, or it could be caused by human error (like overcharging the device). Nevertheless, there are numerous other toothbrushes from other brands that last between 3 and 5 years, whether the device is kept on the charger or not.
Travel ★★☆☆☆ (2/5 stars)
Unfortunately, the toothbrush travel case isn't very nice. It's a basic plastic tube that splits in the center and can be difficult to pull apart, according to some customer reviews.
The main issue is that Waterpik already offers a much superior toothbrush travel case, which was included with the Waterpik WP-900 models. As a result, some may believe that the choice not to include it in the Waterpik Complete Care was made to save money.
So, the brush comes with a small travel case for on the road, but you’ll need to know that the brush cannot be recharged by itself. That means that if you're planning a two- or three-week trip, you'll need to find another option.
Price ★★★☆☆ (3/5 stars)
The price of the Waterpik Complete Care 5.0 is reasonable. If you don't have a waterflosser or a sonic toothbrush, you could find that having everything in one device is really convenient. If you're an advanced user, though, you could be dissatisfied.
The design is very appealing, but when you consider all the factors, like the limited battery life, travel limitations, and toothbrush material quality, it may be more cost-effective to explore alternatives. Noting all of the limitations, the value for money may not be as good as it appears.
Waterpik Complete Care reviews on Youtube
To learn more about how the Waterpik Complete Care 5.0 works, check out this YouTube video.
Waterpik Complete Care reviews on Amazon
3.0 out of 5 stars: Great until the toothbrush won't hold a charge
I've had a waterpik before this would be my 3rd one, but this is the 1st of this version. All the others have been good for years but the toothbrush from this version recently stopped holding a charge. Luckily I have an older model toothbrush that still works. Otherwise I love these 2 in 1 combinations.
Review by Amazon Customer
Just wish the quality was still the same. Thinking about switching to an Oral B tooth rush next time
1.0 out of 5 stars: 6 Weeks Later Toothbrush Won't Hold A Charge
I'd [stay away] from this one. I've had Waterpiks for years and this one is not the quality of the others. For example, in the past I could charge the toothbrush and take it (along with a portable washer) on vacation without recharging. Not this one, it will no longer make it even a day.
Reviewed by Blitz
When I first got it I was suspicious because it would lose half of its charge on a single brushing. Now it loses all of it.
Since it has been over 30 days I'll have to call Amazon for a return – pain in the butt.
RECOMMENDATION: Hard Pass
2.0 out of 5 stars: broken within 2 months
Loved it at first, but now the toothbrush will not recharge; less than 2 months since I received it
Review by Constance J Herron
Waterpik Complete Care 5.0 review vs 9.0
You may be wondering how the Waterpik Complete Care 5.0 stands against the Complete Care 9.0. When comparing Waterpik Complete Care 5.0 vs. 9.0, you will find some differences as well as a lot of similarities.
When looking at the critical reviews, you will find many customers complaining about the battery life, much as they did with the Waterpik Complete Care 5.0.
Like the Waterpik Complete Care 5.0, the Complete Care 9.0 includes a NiMH battery instead of a better quality lithium-ion battery. NiMH batteries are less expensive to create than lithium-ion batteries, but they are less reliable, particularly in electric toothbrushes.
The issue originates from the majority of people's habit of keeping their toothbrushes on chargers while they are not using them. It's bad for NiMH batteries since it reduces their life span. This is why Philips Sonicare has only released lithium-ion-powered toothbrushes in its most recent versions.
If you're purchasing devices that use a NiMH battery, don't keep them plugged in all the time. You're going to be upset.
The specifications of the Waterpik Complete Care 5.0 and 9.0 are fairly similar. It comes with the same Triple Sonic toothbrush with 3 modes, and also includes two brush heads. We discussed the quality concerns about the toothbrush earlier. The setting buttons are designed a bit differently. And the overall design is where the main differences between these two lie.
You can compare the Waterpik Complete Care 5.0 vs 9.0 on Amazon and see if you can find any other differences. They are, in our judgment, acceptable devices with certain weaknesses. However, we think that there are better solutions available.
Waterpik Complete Care 5.0 | Waterpik Complete Care 9.0 |
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Details correct at time of writing; check marketplace for current price and policy details. | |
Conclusion
If you don't have a water flosser or a sonic toothbrush, a combined device can be a great option. It enables you to get a good bang for your buck while also allowing you to take complete care of your smile. The previous Complete Care WP-900 provided good value for money.
However, with the Waterpik Complete Care 5.0 and Complete Care 5.5, they removed a great toothbrush, a flosser tip holder, and a great toothbrush case in exchange for a slim and shiny design.
Waterpik Complete Care 5.0 and Complete Care 5.5 are not bad products, but they are not premium quality and rather a step backward for Waterpik.
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Although the Waterpik Complete Care 5.0 and Complete Care 5.5 are overall decent products, we think they have too many flaws to be considered a premium device. It has an elegant look and it takes up only a little space on the counter due to its slim design.
However, the battery has quality issues. There are many Waterpik Complete Care reviews claiming the battery stops working after 9–12 months. And there are just too many critical reviews to ignore the issue.
The battery is not replaceable: if the battery dies, you will have to buy a whole new device. As we mentioned earlier, if you keep the device plugged in all the time (which can lead to overcharging) you’re excluded from the warranty!
Although the concept of having only one device is great, we think you'd be better off buying an ultrasonic toothbrush and water flosser separately. That way, you can choose a higher-quality ultrasonic toothbrush with advantages like longer battery life, better build quality, and a better grip. Also, you can choose a toothbrush that has less costly replacement brush heads.
FAQ
Do Waterpik toothbrushes really work?
Waterpik makes great toothbrushes and water flossers. They are very effective in removing plaque and bacteria between teeth. It’s recommended to brush and floss twice a day.
Which is better, Oral B or Waterpik?
Both Waterpik and Oral B offer excellent products. Oral B is recognized for its dependability and brand consistency, while Waterpik is known for its new products and effective teeth-cleaning devices.
What is the best Waterpik and brush?
Waterpik offers numerous great toothbrushes and water flossers. One is the Waterpik Sonic Fusion 2.0. Another product we recommend is the Waterpik Complete Care 9.0.
moo.review: Waterpik Complete Care 5.0 Tested and Reviewed. Consulted 1st February 2022.
waterpik.com: Countertop & Cordless Water Flossers | Waterpik Oral Health. Consulted 17st February 2023.