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.
Antibiotics can be prescribed at a low dose for longer term use or as a short term medication to deter bacteria from re-colonizing.
Oral Antibiotics
Topical gels are more commonly prescribed than oral antibiotics as they have a localized effect and are less systemic. Here are some details about different types of oral antibiotics used in periodontal treatment:
- Tetracycline antibiotics: These include tetracycline hydrochloride, doxycycline, and minocycline. They are primary drugs used for periodontal treatment. They have antibacterial properties, reduce inflammation, and inhibit collagenase, a protein that damages connective tissue.
- Macrolide antibiotics: This group of antibiotics is effective in reducing inflammation and can also inhibit bacterial growth associated with periodontitis.
- Metronidazole: This antibiotic is often used in combination with amoxicillin or tetracycline to address inflammation and bacterial growth in severe or chronic periodontitis.
Topical Gels and Strips
Directly applying antibiotics to the gums has the advantage of avoiding systemic effects on the body. Topical gels and direct delivery methods are preferred after scaling and root planing. Here are some commonly used antibiotics for direct delivery:
- Atridox®: A gel that gradually releases doxycycline over time.
- PerioChip®: A chip placed in gum pockets to release Chlorhexidine and reduce pocket depth.
- Actisite®: A thin strip containing tetracycline hydrochloride used temporarily to kill bacteria and reduce pocket depth.
- Elyzol®: A gel or strip form of metronidazole that can destroy parasites and oral bacteria.
- Arestin®: Mini capsules of minocycline delivered into the gums after scaling and root planing.
Systemic or oral antibiotics can lead to noticeable improvements in periodontal conditions. Antibiotics will be used as necessary to help heal your periodontal condition.
If you have any questions about periodontal disease or antibiotic treatments, contact our practice at your convenience.