Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common oral health condition that affects millions of people. It starts with gingivitis, an early stage marked by redness and swelling of the gums, and can progress to periodontitis, a more serious condition that leads to bone and tooth loss if untreated. While regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings are essential in preventing gum disease, more advanced cases often require targeted treatment. One effective tool dentists use is Arestin, an antibiotic therapy designed to fight the bacteria that cause gum disease.
What is Arestin?
Arestin is a prescription antibiotic treatment that comes in the form of tiny microspheres filled with minocycline, a powerful antibiotic. These microspheres are so small that they’re invisible to the naked eye, yet they deliver long-lasting medication directly to the source of infection in your gums.
Unlike systemic antibiotics, which travel throughout your entire body, Arestin is applied locally. This means the medication is placed right into the periodontal pockets (the small spaces between your teeth and gums where bacteria thrive), allowing it to target harmful bacteria precisely where it’s needed most.
How is Arestin Used?
Dentists or periodontists typically apply Arestin after a procedure called scaling and root planing, a deep cleaning that removes plaque and tartar from beneath the gumline. Once your gums are thoroughly cleaned, your dentist places the Arestin powder into the infected pockets.
From there, the antibiotic is slowly released over time, usually up to 21 days. This steady delivery keeps fighting bacteria long after your dental appointment, giving your gums a chance to heal and reattach more firmly to your teeth.
How Does Arestin Treat Gum Disease?
The main cause of gum disease is bacterial infection. When bacteria collect beneath the gumline, they create inflammation and destroy the supporting tissues of your teeth. By releasing an antibiotic directly into the infected area, Arestin:
- Reduces bacterial levels: It kills the bacteria responsible for gum disease.
- Decreases pocket depth: Healthy gums should fit snugly around your teeth. Arestin helps reduce the depth of periodontal pockets, making it easier to keep them clean.
- Supports healing: With bacteria controlled, your gums can heal more effectively and inflammation decreases.
- Prevents disease progression: By targeting the infection early, Arestin helps stop gum disease from advancing to more severe stages.
Benefits of Arestin
- Targeted treatment: Works exactly where the infection is, without affecting your entire body.
- Convenient and painless application: The antibiotic is placed during your dental visit without the need for injections.
- Long-lasting protection: Continues to fight bacteria for weeks after treatment.
- Improves outcomes: Used alongside scaling and root planing, it increases the chances of controlling gum disease.
Gum disease is not something to ignore—it can lead to tooth loss and even impact overall health. Arestin offers a safe, effective way to give your gums extra help in fighting infection. When combined with professional cleanings, good at-home oral care, and regular dental checkups, Arestin can be an important step toward restoring gum health and protecting your smile for the long term.
About the Practice
Do you have gum disease? We’ve got the answer! Here at Oakbrook Dental & Orthodontics, we can provide treatment for periodontal disease like scaling and root planing and Arestin antibiotic therapy to get your gums back in healthy shape. If you find that your gums are red and swollen or bleed when brushing, don’t delay any longer – come see why we’re a trusted practice with an expert team of professionals on staff. Schedule your appointment online or call our McKinney office at (469) 526-4040.