Our dentists may recommend antibiotic periodontal treatment to help manage gum disease and restore your oral health. This treatment targets the harmful bacteria responsible for periodontal infections, reducing inflammation and promoting healing. Antibiotics may be used alone or in combination with other periodontal treatments to improve your gum health.
How Antibiotic Treatment Works
If Dr. Aman Masoomi or Dr. Devon Austin determine that antibiotic therapy is necessary, the first step is often a deep cleaning procedure, such as scaling and root planing. This process removes plaque and tartar from the teeth and below the gumline, creating a clean surface for the antibiotics to be most effective. In more advanced cases, gum surgery may be required before applying the antibiotic treatment.
Antibiotics used in periodontal care can be applied in different forms, including:
- Topical antibiotics – Gels, chips or microspheres that are placed directly into periodontal pockets to target bacteria
- Oral antibiotics – Prescription medications taken in pill form to combat infection throughout the body
- Antiseptic rinses – Medicated mouthwashes designed to reduce bacteria and inflammation
Common antibiotics used in periodontal treatment include doxycycline, minocycline, tetracycline, amoxicillin, macrolides and metronidazole. Some well-known antibiotic treatments for gum disease include ARESTIN®, PerioChip®, ATRIDOX®, Actisite® and Elyzol.
Post-Treatment Care
Following your antibiotic periodontal treatment, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene and follow all instructions provided by our dentists and team. Proper care may include:
- Brushing and flossing daily to prevent plaque buildup
- Using prescribed mouth rinses or additional medications as directed
- Avoiding tobacco use, which can slow healing and worsen gum disease
- Attending follow-up visits to monitor healing and ensure effective treatment
If you have questions about antibiotic periodontal treatment in Durham, North Carolina, or would like to schedule an appointment, contact Willowdaile Family Dentistry at 919-479-5800 and schedule an appointment with our experienced dentists. We are dedicated to helping you achieve and maintain a healthy smile.