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

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Antibiotics may be administered in different forms, including oral medications and topical gels applied directly into the gum pockets. These treatments have proven effective in acute periodontal infections, refractory periodontal disease, prepubertal periodontal disease, and juvenile periodontal disease.

Oral Antibiotics

Oral antibiotics affect the entire body and are generally prescribed less frequently than topical treatments. Common oral antibiotics include:

  • Tetracycline antibiotics: Includes tetracycline hydrochloride, doxycycline, and minocycline. These reduce bacterial growth, control inflammation, and inhibit collagenase, a protein that breaks down connective tissue.
  • Macrolide antibiotics: Effective at reducing inflammation and bacterial growth associated with periodontitis.
  • Metronidazole: Often combined with amoxicillin or tetracycline to treat severe or chronic periodontitis.

Topical Gels and Strips

Topical antibiotics are applied directly to the gum pockets, minimizing systemic effects while effectively targeting bacteria. These treatments are typically used after scaling and root planing:

  • Atridox®: A doxycycline gel that conforms to gum surfaces and gradually releases the antibiotic over several days.
  • PerioChip®: Placed in the gum pocket after root planing, releasing Chlorhexidine to reduce pocket depth.
  • Actisite®: A thin tetracycline strip placed between the tooth and gum to kill bacteria over about 10 days.
  • Elyzol®: Metronidazole gel or strip effective against both bacteria and parasites.
  • Arestin®: Minocycline capsules delivered into the gum pockets after scaling and root planing.

Noticeable improvements in periodontal health are typically observed after systemic or localized antibiotic treatments. Our practice incorporates antibiotics as needed to support healing and maintain healthy gums.

If you have questions about periodontal disease or antibiotic therapy, please contact our office at your convenience.