Gum disease is a serious condition that can lead to tooth loss if left untreated. Our dentists may recommend antibiotic periodontal treatment to combat harmful bacteria, reduce infection and support your overall gum health. This therapy is often used alongside other periodontal treatments, such as scaling and root planing, to effectively manage periodontal disease and help restore your oral health.
How Antibiotic Therapy Works
Antibiotic periodontal treatment targets the bacterial infection that causes gum disease. It can be administered in different forms, including topical applications, oral antibiotics or controlled-release medications. Topical antibiotics are often placed directly into the periodontal pockets after a deep cleaning procedure, ensuring that the medication reaches the source of infection. Oral antibiotics may be prescribed for more severe cases, especially when the infection has spread beyond the gumline.
Common antibiotics used for gum disease include doxycycline, minocycline, tetracycline, amoxicillin, metronidazole and macrolides. Some widely used antibiotic treatments include ARESTIN®, PerioChip®, ATRIDOX®, Actisite® and Elyzol. These medications work by slowing bacterial growth, reducing inflammation and helping the gums heal properly.
What to Expect During Treatment
If antibiotic therapy is part of your treatment plan, our dentists will first perform scaling and root planing to remove plaque and tartar from the teeth and beneath the gumline. In some cases, gum surgery may be required before antibiotics are administered. The antibiotic is then applied directly to the affected areas or prescribed as an oral medication.
Following treatment, it is essential to maintain good oral hygiene and follow all aftercare instructions provided by our team. Proper brushing, flossing and regular dental visits will help prevent reinfection and support long-term gum health.
Schedule a Consultation
If you are experiencing symptoms of gum disease, such as bleeding gums, persistent bad breath or gum recession, contact Gillespie Dental Associates at 828-252-9351 and make an appointment with Dr. Timothy Gillespie and associates. Our experienced dentists can determine if antibiotic periodontal treatment in Asheville, North Carolina, is right for you and develop a personalized plan to restore your oral health.