Pocket Irrigation

Pocket Irrigation and its methods

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 periodontal disease treatments and procedures available, including pocket irrigation, which can assist in treating the progression of the disease.

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, 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, such as professional dental cleaning or pocket reduction surgery.

In the case of a pocket reduction surgery, the plaque and tartar will be removed with special scaling and root planing instruments.  An antimicrobial agent may be applied to reduce the oral bacteria in the pockets. 

Irrigation may be performed after scaling and root planing to cleanse the pockets which helps to reduce subgingival oral bacteria.

If you have any questions about pocket irrigation, cleaning your teeth, periodontal disease and treatment, please contact our practice.


Back

Ready to Get Started?

Quality professional team members that pride ourselves in furthering education to ensure you get the quality care you deserve.

Book Now

Come See Us

410 S. Glendora Ave Suite 210Glendora, CA 91741Get Directions(626) 412-8494

Testimonials

Contact Us

We encourage you to contact us with any questions or comments you may have. Please call our office or use the quick contact form below.

2024 Anna Lee, D.D.S.
Site Developed by Prosites.com

Anna Lee, D.D.S. | 410 S. Glendora Ave, Suite 210, Glendora, CA 91741 | (626) 412-8494