The build is plastic and light. I thought this was another health product gimmick. It took about 4 days of using once a day and my bleeding gums stopped. You just have to get your own system of not making a water mess and start on a low setting. for my 4 day example, i used setting of 2 first day, 4 2nd day, 6 on the rest of the days. Not bad. you will see results with regular use.
The Waterpik works well. Water pressure can be adjusted to accommodate different areas of the mouth. It does take a bit of coordination to assure the water flow is stopped before pulling the wand from the mouth. The Waterpik is a bit top-heavy when filled with water. I used Velcro dots to hold it to the counter to avoid tipping.
Just purchased my second Waterpik flosser. My dental hygienist knew immediately that I use Waterpik and told me what I good job I have done, that my gums look perfect and I am 69 years old!