Re: pockets and listerine

rabbit wrote:

My periodontist suggested root planing for two pockets, one of 4mm and
the other of 6mm.

I asked whether if the use of a mouthwash might obviate the need for
perio intervention. He said to try Listerine. We agreed that for the
next 3 months I would try to keep the area clean and see if I could
"cure" the pockets on my own.

I am now trying Listering and am dipping the small interdental brush
into Listerine to get it between the teeth. Not using it as a
mouthwash but applying directly between the teeth.

Question: Is using listerine in this way, directly between the teeth,
a good idea. Or might it damage the gums in some way. Should I stick
with the mouthwash....or should I do both.

Thanks for any advice.



I see little risk--but I wouldn't expect miracles. Listerine is a mediocre antimicrobial. I'd concentrate more on the interdental brush and less on what you put on it.
If you wanted a trial with a more effective antiseptic rinse, I'd ask my dentist if a prescription for Peridex (chlorhexidene gluconate 0.12%) is a good idea. It can cause staining and occasionally change in taste sensation though, so generally I don't have my patients on it for more than a couple of months.

Steve

--
Mark & Steven Bornfeld DDS
http://www.dentaltwins.com
Brooklyn, NY
718-258-5001
.

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