[Subgingival irrigation: a heresy?]

Bacteria are the principal causal factor for gingivitis and adult periodontitis. This article is a review of the pertinent literature regarding subgingival irrigation with antimicrobial agents. Furthermore, the clinical significance of this technique is evaluated. In order for the antimicrobial agent to reach the base of the periodontal pocket, the canula must be placed at least 3.0 mm subgingivally. Subgingival irrigation offers no added antimicrobial effect over root scaling alone, but may extend the therapeutic effect of scaling. The effect of subgingival irrigation is none the less temporary. Subgingival irrigation must be regarded as an alternative treatment for gingivitis and adult periodontitis when root scaling alone is not sufficient.