11611 Rancho Bernardo Rd #103 San Diego, CA: (858) 500-1452 | 985 S Santa Fe Ave Vista, CA: (760) 203-5435

digital example of root planing

- Gum Recession -

Pocket Irrigation in Vista and San Diego

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, 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.

digital example of Periodontal Scaling

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.

Your Caring, Local Dentist In San Diego & Vista

If you are looking for a dental practice that can provide quality general, cosmetic, and restorative services you and your family deserve, Oasis Smiles is the right choice for you.

We combine seasoned chairside manners with cutting-edge technology to ensure you're in reliable, capable hands that are adamant about delivering satisfying results. We can't wait to welcome you into one of our clean, friendly offices in either Vista or San Diego.

We believe in convenient procedures without skimping on the quality of results. Request your appointment!

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    San Diego Location

    Address: 11611 Rancho Bernardo Rd #103 San Diego, CA 92127Telephone: +1 (858) 500-1452Email: moc.liamg%40brselimssisaoOffice Hours: Monday-Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
    Patient treatment is scheduled Mon, Tues, Wed, or Fri only

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    Vista Location

    Address: 985 S Santa Fe Ave Vista, CA 92083Telephone: +1 (760) 203-5435Office Hours: Monday-Friday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM