Information on
Arestin
Gum disease, or periodontitis, is a condition characterized by inflammation and infection of the gums, which can ultimately affect the bone that supports your teeth. Arestin (minocycline hydrochloride) is an antibiotic that comes in microsphere form, designed to be released slowly into the infected periodontal pockets, offering a targeted and effective treatment against the bacteria causing gum disease.
The Importance of Targeted Antibiotic Treatment
The unique microsphere technology allows Arestin to be precisely placed where it is needed most, directly into the periodontal pockets. This localized approach not only maximizes the antibiotic’s effectiveness but also minimizes its impact on the rest of your body, making it a safe and efficient treatment option. The slow release of the antibiotic ensures prolonged bacterial suppression, helping to halt the progression of gum disease and promote healing of the gum tissue.
Comprehensive Care Approach
Our treatment philosophy encompasses a holistic approach to dental health. We understand that gum disease is not just a local issue but can be indicative of or contribute to systemic health problems. By addressing gum disease with Arestin, we aim not only to improve your oral health but also to contribute positively to your overall well-being.
Key Benefits of Gum Disease Treatment
Here are the key benefits of the Arestin treatment approach:
- Targeted Antibiotic Delivery: Arestin provides precise application directly into the periodontal pockets, ensuring that the treatment is focused exactly where it’s needed for maximum effectiveness.
- Extended Bacterial Suppression: The microsphere technology allows for a slow release of the antibiotic, maintaining effective levels of medication in the gum pockets over an extended period to continuously fight bacteria.
- Minimally Invasive Procedure: The application of Arestin is a simple, non-surgical procedure that can be completed quickly and without discomfort, making it an attractive option for patients.
- Enhanced Healing of Gum Tissue: By directly combating the bacteria causing gum disease, Arestin promotes the healing and reattachment of gum tissue to the teeth, improving overall gum health.
- Reduced Risk of Systemic Diseases: Treating gum disease with Arestin can help lower the risk of developing systemic conditions linked to periodontitis, such as heart disease and diabetes.
- Improved Treatment Outcomes: When used in conjunction with scaling and root planing, Arestin has been shown to significantly improve the outcomes of periodontal treatment compared to scaling and root planing alone.
- Safe for Long-term Use: Arestin has been thoroughly tested and proven to be safe for long-term use, providing patients with a reliable treatment option without significant side effects.
- Minimal Post-treatment Discomfort: Patients typically experience little to no discomfort following the application of Arestin, making the recovery process smooth and manageable.
- Supports Overall Oral Health: By effectively treating periodontal disease, Arestin helps preserve the natural teeth, reduce gum recession, and prevent tooth loss, contributing to overall oral health and well-being.
- Convenient Treatment Option: Arestin treatment does not require extensive preparation or recovery time, making it a convenient option for patients with busy schedules or those seeking a quick and effective solution to gum disease.
Patient Resources
- After Care Instructions
- Patient Forms
- Meet the Doctor
- Directions
The Evaluation Stage
The Foundation of Effective Treatment
Before initiating any treatment, a thorough evaluation of your oral health is paramount. This stage is critical in determining the extent of the gum disease and tailoring a treatment plan that best suits your needs.
Detailed Examination and Diagnosis
Our comprehensive evaluation process includes a detailed examination of your gums, teeth, and bone structure. We utilize advanced diagnostic tools, such as digital X-rays and periodontal probing, to accurately assess the depth of the periodontal pockets and the severity of the gum disease. This meticulous approach ensures that we identify all affected areas, forming the basis for a targeted treatment plan.
Personalized Treatment Planning
Understanding that each patient’s condition is unique, we develop personalized treatment plans that address the specific needs of your oral health. Our team will discuss with you the findings of the evaluation, explaining the implications of gum disease and how Arestin can be utilized effectively in your treatment. We believe in empowering our patients with knowledge, enabling you to make informed decisions about your dental care.
The Treatment Process
The treatment process with Arestin is minimally invasive and can be performed right in our office. It is typically administered following a scaling and root planing procedure, a deep cleaning method that removes plaque and tartar from below the gum line.
Scaling and Root Planing: Preparing the Ground
Scaling and root planing is a critical step in the treatment of gum disease. This procedure allows us to remove the bacterial plaque and tartar that contribute to the infection and inflammation of the gums. It also smoothens the root surfaces, making it more difficult for bacteria to adhere and easier for the gums to reattach to the teeth.
Precise Application of Arestin
Following the scaling and root planing, Arestin microspheres are carefully applied directly into the periodontal pockets. The application is quick and painless, requiring no anesthesia. The microspheres begin to dissolve immediately, releasing the antibiotic to start combating the bacteria. This targeted approach ensures that the treatment is focused on the areas that need it most, maximizing effectiveness while minimizing side effects.
Recovery and Aftercare
