Antibiotic Treatment

Antibiotics manage periodontal disease by reducing bacteria before and after treatment. Available in oral and topical forms, they effectively prevent infection and promote healing for both short- and long-term use.

Oral Antibiotics

Oral antibiotics affect the whole body and are used less often than topical treatments. Key types include:

Tetracycline Antibiotics: This group, including tetracycline hydrochloride, doxycycline, and minocycline, is vital for periodontal treatment. They combat bacteria, reduce inflammation, and inhibit collagenase, an enzyme that damages connective tissue.
Macrolide Antibiotics: These antibiotics effectively reduce bacterial growth and inflammation, making them suitable for treating periodontitis.
Metronidazole: Often paired with amoxicillin or tetracycline, metronidazole is effective for severe or chronic periodontitis, targeting bacteria and reducing inflammation.

Topical Gels and Strips

Topical antibiotics provide targeted treatment for gum issues without systemic effects, making them preferable to oral antibiotics, especially after scaling and root planing. Effective options include:

Atridox®: A doxycycline gel that adheres to gums, hardens, and gradually releases medication to combat bacteria.
PerioChip®: A small chip inserted into gum pockets that releases chlorhexidine to reduce pocket depth and fight infection.
Actisite®: A thin strip infused with tetracycline hydrochloride, placed between the tooth and gum to inhibit bacteria and decrease pocket depth.
Elyzol®: A metronidazole-based gel or strip that targets harmful bacteria and parasites, offering broad antimicrobial action.
Arestin®: Minocycline capsules applied directly into gum pockets post-treatment, providing long-lasting antibacterial protection and aiding healing.

Antibiotic Treatment