Locally Administered Antibiotics for Periodontal Disease Treatment

By Dr. Nicole Shen

Periodontal disease is infection and inflammation that damages the gum tissue and bone that hold your teeth. This occurs when harmful bacteria build up on your teeth and underneath the gums leading to red, swollen, tender gums that can even bleed. Through time, deep periodontal pockets begin to develop between your gums and your teeth, making it very difficult for your bristles from toothbrush to effectively clean those pockets. Sometimes additional treatment is necessary such as scaling and root planing (also known as a “deep cleaning”) in conjunction with Arestin. Arestin is a locally administered slow-release antibiotic in the form of a powder containing minocycline hydrochloride, a broad-spectrum antibiotic. It is specifically designed for treating periodontal disease. After a “deep cleaning”, Arestin is delivered directly into the periodontal pockets using a specialized syringe.

The powder adheres to the infected area, releasing the antibiotic gradually over time, allowing for concentrated treatment precisely where it is needed. By providing a sustained release of minocycline, Arestin helps eliminate bacteria that cause periodontal disease, reducing inflammation and promoting healing. The application process is quick, non-surgical, and minimally invasive. Patients experience minimal discomfort during the procedure and can resume their daily activities immediately after treatment. Talk to your dentist about whether locally administered antibiotics is right for you.

This article was published on 07-21-2023 in The Altamont Enterprise.