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, 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 primary benefits of pocket irrigation:

• Interdental cleaning – Pocket irrigators remove plaque, tartar, and food particles from between the teeth. The removal of these harmful materials keeps the gum pockets cleaner and shallower, thus helping the gum tissue remain healthy.
  
  
• Halitosis prevention – Halitosis (or bad breath) is generally a result of uncleaned food particles between the teeth, tooth decay, or bacterial buildup. A toothbrush and floss alone may not be able to reach into the depths of the gum pockets, however irrigation can flush out food particles and help clean above and below the gum line.
  
  
• Subgingival cleaning – Pocket irrigators have a rounded tip that eliminates the risk of tissue damage while cleaning under the gum line. The side port opening facilitates extensive cleansing by flushing out bacteria, particles and toxins from below the gum line.
  
  
• 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 are removed with special scaling and root planing instruments. Once the pockets have been irrigated, an antimicrobial agent may be applied. This will help reduce the proliferation of harmful oral bacteria.

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. This should not be used as a substitute for professional dental cleaning or the use of dental floss.

If you have any questions about pocket irrigation, cleaning your teeth, periodontal disease and treatment, please ask your dentist.