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 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.

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Testimonials

I had an entire dental replacement procedure done over the last 18 months. All new crowns to replace my worn teeth. BridgeCreek Prosthetic Dentistry did an amazing job and it was life changing for me. I now feel excited to smile again after many years of hiding. Dr Butler and his staff are just fantastic! Caring, attentive and professional. The entire experience was positive and it has given me a new found confidence in my appearance.

Thank you BridgeCreek

Ed G.

Dr. Waguespack gave me the smile I always dreamed of which also gave me the confidence to truly enjoy it.
From my very first (tearful!) consultation, he brought compassion, expertise, and steady reassurance to every step of my journey, from recommending Invisalign to the final restoration. He answered every question with patience, listened with care, and never made me feel rushed. He was precise and detail-oriented with a sharp eye for fine-tuning every area of my dental work. That level of care and artistry made my new smile not just beautiful, but truly mine.
My process with Dr. W wasn’t just about misaligned teeth or a crooked smile - it was about helping me feel like myself again. I always felt respected, supported, and genuinely cared for and not just by Dr. Waguespack but by his entire office team. They were warm, professional, and made every visit a pleasure.
I’ll be recommending Dr. Waguespack to anyone in need of prosthodontic care or even a thorough consultation. I don’t just have a beautiful smile now, I have a renewed comfort in being myself that shows in every photo, every laugh, and every moment where I feel free to simply be me.
Gratitude to Dr. Waguespack and all the caring people at BridgeCreek Prosthetic Dentistry.

Barbara V.

I have been seeing Dr. Butler and his staff at BridgeCreek Prosthetic Dentistry for over five
years for regular dentistry and other oral health issues. Dr. Butler's approach to dentistry has
been perfect for my needs, as he understand and treats serious problems when they arise,
but also takes a conservative approach when it is warranted, and does not perform
unnecessary treatments or interventions. This has saved me not only significant sums of
money over what other care providers recommended for my oral health needs, but has also
saved me from a lot of unnecessary procedures and the pain and inconvenience related
thereto.

I would recommend Bridgecreek Prosthetic Dentistry to anyone, no matter what level of oral
health care you need.

Jeremy S.

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