Delivering CHX with the Waterpik^™ Pik Pocket^™ Tip is More Effective than Rinsing with CHX for Implant Maintenance

Objective

To evaluate the effect of the Waterpik^™ dental water with the Pik Pocket^™ tip using half strength (0.06%) chlorhexidine (CHX) compared to rinsing with full strength (0.12%) CHX.

Methodology

This randomized, three months study involved twenty-four patients with a minimum of two implants. Once daily, half the subjects used the Waterpik^™ dental water jet with the Pik Pocket^™ tip with 0.06% CHX and the other half rinsed with 0.12% CHX. Plaque, gingivitis, bleeding, stain, and calculus were evaluated.

Results

Patients who used the Waterpik^™ dental water jet and the Pik Pocket^™ tip had significantly greater reductions in plaque, gingivitis, and stain than those who only rinsed with CHX. For bleeding, the Waterpik^™ dental water jet was 87% more effective at reducing gingival bleeding.

Conclusion

Patients who used the Waterpik^™ dental water jet and the Pik Pocket^™ tip had significantly greater reductions in plaque, gingivitis, and stain than those who only rinsed with CHX.