I've used an automated flossers before, so I when I needed to replace my old one (which had been discontinued by Oral-B), I was very happy to find the reasonably priced Waterpik. I have NO clue why, but its sale has been discontinued at Target and other retail stores; however, I continue to purchase the flosser tips at myotcstore because this machine performs like a dream and keeps my teeth/gums healthy. I haven't been able to afford dental insurance for some years (one of the unfortunate results of developing chronic fatigue syndrom & fibromyalgia and losing a paycheck), so I'm careful but not obsessive with my teeth --I usually floss (with regular floss), then use the Waterpik flosser, and then brush once daily. I used to use dental floss only before brushing, and it definitely made a difference; but when I started using the Waterpick flosser, it made an even bigger difference. A BIG difference. I get my teeth cleaned about once a year, and my dentist is constantly in awe of the shape of my teeth ....this for someone who had 13 cavities at once when I was a kid and who used to get cavities easily. Now I also use Vita-Myr healing toothpaste and mouthwash --because they are exceedingly effective and completely natural (no stinking Sodium Lauryl Sulfate or other chemicals in MY toothpaste!), so that contributes to the health of my teeth and gums, but the automated flossing ....whew! And it feels GREAT. At one point several years ago, I had to go without cleaning or other care from my dentist for FIVE YEARS, and when I finally was able to make an appointment, he was preparing me to hear some bad news; but because I had been using the flosser, etc., there was nothing special to do! My dentist's jaw literally fell open when he examined my teeth -- he said, "My god, your teeth and gums look great! What are you doing??!!?!" It's call preventive care, and I swear by it. This machine is part of the equation, and I (obviously!) highly recommend it. And myotcstore offers GREAT prices on the machine itself and the replacement Whitening Flosser Tips. USE this!! :o)