fbpx
 

Pocket
Irrigation

Periodontal disease is a progressive condition which leads to gum inflammation, the recession of bone and gum tissue, and tooth loss if left untreated.  There are a variety of effective treatments and procedures available, including pocket irrigation, which can assist in treating the progression of the disease.

Pocket
Irrigation

Pocket irrigation aims to cleanse plaque from the interdental (between teeth) and subgingival (under the gumline) regions of the mouth in order to prevent the colonization of harmful oral bacteria.  This procedure is also used to deliver antibacterials to the subgingival areas.

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 keep the gum pockets cleaner and shallower; thus 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 gumline.
  •  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 for 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; for example, as part of a professional dental cleaning or in combination with 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 ask your dentist.

Get In Touch With Us

Schedule an Appointment

Schedule your next visit to River Road Dental, click the button below to get started and we will contact you as soon as possible.

Committed To
Excellence

https://t5h733.a2cdn1.secureserver.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/home-services.jpg?time=1710448471

Dental Procedures

When you visit our dental office, your smile is our top priority.  Our entire team is dedicated to providing you with the personalized, quality dental care that you deserve.

https://t5h733.a2cdn1.secureserver.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/home-services-2.jpg?time=1710448471

Dental Implants

Dental implants are a great way to replace missing teeth. Implants create a fixed solution to having removable dentures by providing excellent support and stability.

https://t5h733.a2cdn1.secureserver.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/home-services-4.jpg?time=1710448471

Cleaning & Exams

A preventive program is a cooperative effort by the patient, dentist, and dental staff to stop the onset, progress, and recurrence of dental diseases and conditions.

https://t5h733.a2cdn1.secureserver.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/home-services-3.jpg?time=1710448471

Oral Surgery

Our experienced surgeons have advanced training in the diagnosis and treatment of various dental conditions and injuries. Our clients trust us to provide excellent results!

Can't find the dental procedure you are looking for?

Copyright 2021 by River Road Dental. All rights reserved.

Website Created By: ISN Websites

Copyright 2021 by River Road Dental. All rights reserved.

Website Created By: ISN Websites