In recognition of World Oral Health Day, Waterpik has announced the release of PROMAX™, a water flosser designed to support improved gingival health through automated pressure modulation.
The PROMAX™ system incorporates SMARTADVANCE™ mode, which gradually increases water intensity over time. This feature is intended to enhance subgingival plaque disruption while addressing patient hesitation around pressure adjustment. According to company data, use of the device is associated with a reduction in gingival bleeding within 6 weeks.
Clinical Context: Addressing Gingival Bleeding
Gingival bleeding remains a common clinical finding and is often indicative of inflammation associated with plaque accumulation in areas not easily accessed by brushing or traditional string floss. The PROMAX™ device is designed to deliver irrigation below the gingival margin, supporting biofilm disruption in these regions.
The automated pressure progression in SMARTADVANCE™ mode may be particularly relevant for patients who are reluctant to increase device intensity manually, potentially improving adherence and outcomes over time.
Key features of the PROMAX™ water flosser include:
SMARTADVANCE™ mode for automatic water intensity progression
QUIETPULSE™ technology to reduce operational noise
Dual user memory settings
Compact countertop design
Five specialized flossing tips for varied oral care needs
Digital LED control interface
Professional Input and Clinical Relevance
The device was developed with input from dental professionals, with a focus on addressing persistent challenges in patient home care routines.
"At WATERPIK, we don't believe gum health should be complicated or uncertain," said Bart Prins, General Manager at WATERPIK. "PROMAX represents a step change in oral care technology — delivering effective results at home, automatically. PROMAX showcases Waterpik's 60 years of engineering expertise and emphasizes how our water flossers command water for effective performance and results."
"Bleeding gums are the most common concern I see in practice," said Dr. Chris Strandburg. "PROMAX SMARTADVANCE Mode removes the friction by advancing water intensity gradually and automatically for the user, making it easier to achieve healthier gums."
Background: Water Flossing in Practice
Water flossers use pulsating streams of water to remove plaque and debris from interproximal and subgingival areas. Compared to string floss, they may offer advantages for certain patient populations, including those with orthodontic appliances, implants, or limited dexterity.
Clinical evidence cited by the manufacturer indicates that water flossing can remove up to 99.9% of plaque from treated areas and may reduce gingival bleeding more effectively than string floss in some cases. Additionally, water flossing is generally considered less technique-sensitive, which may support improved patient compliance.
Initial bleeding during adoption is commonly associated with pre-existing inflammation rather than mechanical trauma. With consistent use and reduction of bacterial load, gingival health typically improves and bleeding diminishes.
Considerations for Patient Education
PROMAX™ includes automated intensity adjustment, which may simplify patient use by removing the need for manual pressure calibration. Gradual increases in intensity align with standard recommendations for introducing oral irrigation devices.
Water flossing is recognized by organizations such as the American Dental Association as an effective method for cleaning between teeth and below the gumline. Many clinicians recommend it as an adjunct or alternative for patients who have difficulty with traditional flossing techniques.
The PROMAX™ water flosser is currently available through major retail channels.
Figures and Images
Waterpik PROMAX™
