POCKET IRRIGATION
The objective of scaling and root planing is to remove etiologic agents which cause inflammation to the gingival (gum) tissue and surrounding bone. Common etiologic agents removed by this conventional periodontal therapy include dental plaque and tartar (calculus).
These non-surgical procedures which completely cleanse the periodontium, work very effectively for individuals suffering from gingivitis (mild gum inflammation) and moderate/severe periodontal disease.
Reasons for pocket irrigation
Pocket irrigation, which is also known as oral irrigation, is a versatile dental treatment used for several different preventative purposes. Pocket irrigation may be performed as part of a professional dental cleaning, or at home with a specially modified oral irrigator.
Here are the main ways in which pocket irrigation can be beneficial:
Interdental cleaning – Pocket irrigators blast plaque, food particles, and other debris from between the teeth. The removal of harmful materials and bacteria keeps the gum pockets cleaner and shallower, helping the gum tissue remain healthy.
Halitosis prevention – Halitosis (or bad breath) is generally a result of old food particles between the teeth, and tooth decay. A toothbrush or dental scraper alone may not be able to reach into the depths of the gum pockets, but water jets can flush out food particles and help clean above and below the gum line.
Subgingival cleaning – Pocket irrigators have a rounded tip which eliminates the risk of tissue damage while cleaning under the gumline. The side port opening facilitates extensive cleansing by flushing out bacteria, particles, and toxins from below the gumline.
Antimicrobial application – Antimicrobial substances have proven effective in eliminating and preventing some strains of harmful oral bacteria. Antimicrobial substances can be combined with water, or used as a stand-alone treatment for successful pocket irrigation.
What does pocket irrigation treatment involve?
Pocket irrigation is generally performed in combination with other dental treatments, such as professional dental cleaning or pocket reduction surgery.
In the case of a pocket reduction surgery, the tartar and subgingival plaque will be removed with special scaling and root planing instruments. When the pockets are free of debris, an antimicrobial agent may be applied using an oral irrigator. This will help reduce harmful oral bacteria which still remain in the pockets.
During a deep cleaning procedure, a pocket irrigator may be used after scaling and root planing to cleanse the pockets. Again, an antimicrobial agent may be applied to help reduce subgingival oral bacteria.
Pocket irrigation can be performed at home as part of the daily oral routine using a water jet or water pick. Flushing the interdental area with water is less harmful to soft tissue than dental floss, but should not be used as a substitute for professional dental cleaning.
If you have any questions about pocket irrigation, cleaning your teeth, periodontal disease, and treatment, please contact our practice.