Periodontal disease is a progressive condition
that leads to severe inflammation and tooth loss if left untreated. Antibiotic treatments can
be used in combination with scaling and root planing, curettage, surgery, or as a stand-alone treatment
to help reduce bacteria before and/or after many common periodontal procedures.
Antibiotic treatments come in several different
types, including oral forms and topical gels which are applied directly into the gum pockets.
Research has shown that in the case of acute periodontal infection, refractory periodontal disease,
prepubertal periodontal disease and juvenile periodontal disease, antibiotic treatments have been
incredibly effective.
Oral
Antibiotics
-
Tetracycline antibiotics – Antibiotics which include tetracycline
hydrochloride, doxycycline, and minocycline are the primary drugs used in
periodontal treatment. They have antibacterial properties, reduce
inflammation and block collagenase (a protein which destroys the connective
tissue).
-
Macrolide
antibiotics
– This group of antibiotics has proven effective at reducing inflammation
and can also reduce bacterial growth associated with
periodontitis.
-
Metronidazole
– This antibiotic is generally used in combination with amoxicillin or tetracycline to
combat inflammation and bacterial growth in severe or chronic periodontitis.
Topical Gels and
Strips
The biggest advantage of directly delivering
antibiotics to the surface of the gums is not affecting the entire body. Topical gels and direct
delivery methods tend to be preferred over their oral counterparts and are extremely effective when used
after scaling and root planing procedures. Here are some of the most commonly used direct delivery
antibiotics:
-
Atridox® –
This doxycycline gel conforms to the contours of gum surfaces and solidifies over them.
Over several days, this gel gradually releases the antibiotic medication.
-
PerioChip®
– This chip is placed into the actual gum pocket after a root planing
procedure. PerioChip® slowly releases Chlorhexidine, a powerful antibacterial
antiseptic. PerioChip® reduces pocket depth in most periodontitis cases.
-
Actisite® –
This thin strip is similar to dental floss and contains tetracycline
hydrochloride. The thread is temporarily placed between the tooth and gum to kill
bacteria and reduce pocket depth. Several threads are sometimes placed for around
10 days to enhance the antibiotic effect.
-
Elyzol® –
This metronidazole antibiotic comes in gel and strip form. It is unique because it is
able to destroy parasites as well as oral bacteria.
-
Arestin®
– This Minocycline antibiotic comes in mini capsules which are delivered into the
gums after scaling and root planing.
Noticeable periodontal improvements are usually
seen after systemic or oral antibiotic treatment. We will incorporate antibiotic treatments as
necessary for the healing of your periodontal condition.
If you have any questions about periodontal
disease or antibiotic treatments, contact our practice at your convenience.
CALL US: (703) 730-2931 REQUEST APPOINTMENT