Antibiotic Treatments for Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease is a progressive condition that can lead to severe inflammation and tooth loss if left untreated. Antibiotic therapy is often used alongside treatments such as scaling and root planing, curettage, or periodontal surgery, and can also be used as a stand-alone treatment to help reduce harmful bacteria before or after these procedures.

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Types of Antibiotic Treatments

Antibiotics for periodontal disease are available in two main forms: oral medications and topical gels or strips applied directly into gum pockets. Research has shown that antibiotics can be highly effective for conditions such as acute periodontal infection, refractory periodontal disease, prepubertal periodontal disease, and juvenile periodontal disease. Antibiotics can be prescribed as a short-term therapy or at a low dose for longer-term use to prevent bacterial recolonization.

Oral Antibiotics

Oral antibiotics affect the entire body and are generally less commonly prescribed than topical treatments. Some commonly used oral antibiotics include:

  • Tetracycline antibiotics: Includes tetracycline hydrochloride, doxycycline, and minocycline. These reduce bacterial growth, decrease inflammation, and inhibit collagenase, a protein that destroys connective tissue.
  • Macrolide antibiotics: Reduce inflammation and help control bacterial growth associated with periodontitis.
  • Metronidazole: Often combined with amoxicillin or tetracycline to target inflammation and bacterial growth in severe or chronic periodontitis.

Topical Gels and Strips

Topical antibiotics deliver medication directly to the affected gum areas, minimizing systemic effects and providing highly targeted treatment. These are often used following scaling and root planing procedures. Common options include:

  • Atridox®: A doxycycline gel that conforms to gum surfaces and gradually releases medication over several days.
  • PerioChip®: A small chip placed in the gum pocket after root planing, slowly releasing chlorhexidine to reduce pocket depth and fight bacteria.
  • Actisite®: A thin strip containing tetracycline hydrochloride, temporarily placed between the tooth and gum for up to 10 days to eliminate bacteria and reduce pocket depth.
  • Elyzol®: A metronidazole gel or strip that targets both oral bacteria and parasites.
  • Arestin®: Minocycline delivered in mini capsules directly into the gum pockets after scaling and root planing.

Noticeable improvements in periodontal health are often observed following antibiotic therapy. Our dental team will incorporate antibiotics as necessary to support the healing and management of your periodontal condition.

If you have any questions about periodontal disease or antibiotic treatments, please contact our practice at your convenience.