Our periodontist may recommend antibiotic therapy as an effective approach to combat gum disease and facilitate the restoration of your oral health. This type of treatment, often referred to as antimicrobial therapy, is frequently employed as an effective treatment option for managing periodontal disease. Depending on the severity and specific needs of your case, it can be utilized either as a standalone treatment or in conjunction with other types of care.
Antibiotic periodontal treatment typically involves several steps:
- Initial Assessment: Our periodontist will first conduct a thorough examination to determine if antibiotic therapy is suitable for you.
- Scaling and Root Planing: For most patients, the treatment begins with scaling and root planing, which involves cleaning plaque and tartar from your tooth surfaces and beneath the gums.
- Advanced Cases: In more severe instances of periodontal disease, the treatment might be preceded by surgical interventions to better prepare the area for antibiotic application.
- Direct Application: The selected antibiotic medication is then directly applied into the infected periodontal pockets to effectively combat the bacteria.
The antibiotics used in this therapy are chosen based on their effectiveness against the bacteria typically involved in periodontal disease and may include agents such as doxycycline, minocycline, tetracycline, amoxicillin, macrolide or metronidazole. Commonly used products in these treatments include ARESTIN®, PerioChip®, ATRIDOX®, Actisite® and Elyzol®.
Following your treatment, our periodontist and team will provide you with instructions to help you heal and recover and to maximize the benefits of your antibiotic treatment. These instructions will include maintaining good oral hygiene at home, as regular brushing, flossing and use of mouthwash can significantly contribute to the healing process and help prevent the return of gum disease.
For more information about antibiotic periodontal therapy in New York, New York, and to schedule your appointment with Dr. Pasquale Malpeso, contact our office at 212-838-0090. We are here to help you achieve and maintain optimal oral health.