Fighting Gum Disease with Arestin
When deep cleaning alone is not enough to control the bacteria responsible for gum disease, Arestin can provide targeted support directly where it is needed. This locally applied antibiotic helps fight infection inside periodontal pockets and supports healthier gums after treatment.
What Is Arestin?
Arestin is a topical antibiotic that treats the bacteria responsible for gum disease. It is made up of a powder containing thousands of tiny microspheres, which are bead-like particles smaller than grains of sand and invisible to the naked eye.
These microspheres release antibiotics gradually over time into the periodontal pockets where bacteria thrive, helping your gums heal after treatment.
When Would Dr. Smith Use Arestin in Your Treatment?
If you’ve been diagnosed with periodontitis, also known as advanced gum disease, Dr. Smith may recommend including Arestin in your treatment. Gum disease is caused by microbial plaque that collects on the surfaces of your teeth and below the gumline. These bacteria can break down the tissue and bone supporting your teeth.
If left untreated, your gums can become inflamed, and the tissue and bone supporting your teeth can begin to deteriorate. Infected gums can pull away from the teeth, creating periodontal pockets where additional bacteria can accumulate.
Dr. Smith may use Arestin to help fight gum disease after a periodontal procedure called scaling and root planing. During this nonsurgical deep-cleaning procedure, Dr. Smith cleans above and below the gumline to remove plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth and their roots.
Come to Karl A. Smith, DDS for a Consultation
If you’ve been fighting gum disease, Arestin may be an effective addition to your treatment plan. Dr. Smith can evaluate your periodontal health and work with you to improve the health of your teeth and gums.
To schedule a consultation or ask questions about scaling and root planing or Arestin, call us at (703) 894-4867 or send us an email.