Local Antimicrobials (e.g., Arestin) and Systemic Antibiotics

The Role of Antibiotics in Gum Disease Treatment

Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection beneath the gums that can lead to inflammation, bone loss, and even tooth loss if untreated. While scaling and root planing (deep cleaning) is the frontline treatment, antimicrobial support can make a significant difference—especially in moderate to advanced cases.

At Cornerstone Dental Arts, we offer two types of antibiotic therapies when appropriate:

1. Local antimicrobials (e.g., Arestin®)

2. Systemic antibiotics (oral medications)

These therapies help reduce the bacterial load in the gums and enhance healing.

1. Local Antimicrobials (Arestin®)

Arestin® is a locally applied antibiotic (minocycline microspheres) placed directly into infected periodontal pockets immediately after scaling and root planing. It releases the medication over time to kill bacteria deep below the gumline.

Benefits of Arestin:

• Targets infection at the source

• Minimally invasive—no shots or surgery

• Stays in place and works for up to 21 days

• Improves gum pocket depth reduction

• Enhances healing between cleanings

Ideal for: Patients with pocket depths of 4mm or more, or with localized sites that aren’t responding to cleaning alone.

2. Systemic Antibiotics

Systemic antibiotics (such as amoxicillin, metronidazole, or doxycycline) are prescribed when infection is more widespread, aggressive, or when the patient has other risk factors like diabetes or immune suppression.

When systemic antibiotics are indicated:

• Advanced periodontitis affecting multiple areas

• Acute periodontal abscesses or severe inflammation

• Rapid tissue destruction or bone loss

• Post-surgical infection prevention

We carefully review your health history, medications, and dental condition before prescribing systemic antibiotics to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Why Use Antibiotics in Periodontal Care?

• Reduce harmful bacteria beneath the gumline

• Help prevent re-infection after treatment

• Improve healing response and pocket depth

• Reduce the need for surgical intervention

• Support long-term maintenance results

Antibiotic therapy is not always necessary, but when used appropriately, it can enhance your periodontal care and help preserve your natural teeth longer.

What to Expect

If Arestin is applied:

• It is placed painlessly into the gum pocket after deep cleaning.

• No eating hard or crunchy foods for 7–10 days in that area.

• No flossing the treated site for 10 days.

• You’ll return for follow-up to monitor progress.

If systemic antibiotics are prescribed:

• You’ll take the medication as directed for a short period (usually 7–10 days).

• We may combine this with in-office treatments for optimal results.

• Always complete the full course of antibiotics, even if symptoms improve.

FAQs About Antimicrobial Therapy in Dentistry

Q: Do I always need antibiotics for gum disease?
A: Not always. Many cases respond well to deep cleaning alone, but antibiotics are helpful when infection is more aggressive or localized.

Q: Is Arestin safe?
A: Yes. Arestin is FDA-approved and widely used. It delivers antibiotic medication directly to the site with minimal risk of side effects.

Q: Can I use antibiotics instead of a deep cleaning?
A: No. Antibiotics are a supplement—not a substitute—for mechanical cleaning. They enhance treatment results but don’t replace the need for scaling and root planing.

Q: Will insurance cover Arestin or antibiotics?
A: Some dental plans offer partial coverage for Arestin or adjunctive therapies. Our team will check your benefits and explain any costs beforehand.

Q: Can antibiotic overuse be a concern?
A: Yes, which is why we only prescribe antibiotics when clinically necessary. Local delivery systems like Arestin reduce the need for systemic antibiotics and lower overall exposure.