Periodontal disease is commonly treated with a mechanical procedure known as root debridement. Root debridement removes plaque, tarter, and stains from the surface of teeth and below the gumline. A local anaesthetic is administered to reduce any discomfort. The hygienist carefully removes plaque and tarter down to the bottom of each periodontal pocket. The rough areas of the root are smoothed to promote healing and make it more difficult for plaque to accumulate along the root surfaces.
While debridement is effective at reducing infection causing bacteria, it doesn’t kill all the bacteria that cause periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is a chronic bacterial infection and as with any infection, treatment with an antibiotic is common. That’s why a dental healthcare team often decides to add a locally administered antibiotic (LAA) such as ARESTIN®. This comprehensive approach provides patients with two therapies that work simultaneously (ARESTIN® + debridement) to help kill the harmful bacteria that cause periodontal disease so that the infection becomes more easily managed and won’t immediately return.
Infected pockets inside your gums require treatment before periodontal disease causes further damage. Clinical studies show that ARESTIN® plus debridement is more effective than debridement alone at shrinking the size of infected periodontal pockets, killing the bacteria associated with periodontal disease, and reducing bleeding on probing of the gums.
- ARESTIN® is a small amount of antibiotic powder that is placed inside infected periodontal pockets just after your dental professional finishes the debridement procedure
- Once ARESTIN® is inserted; it immediately adheres to the periodontal pocket
- ARESTIN® uses Microsphere technology to easily and effectively kill the bacteria that cause periodontal disease
- ARESTIN® remains in the pocket for up to 21 days to help ensure continued treatment
At your follow up appointment, the hygienist will check how the gums have healed and how the periodontal pockets have decreased. You’ll be given instructions on how to care for your healing teeth and gums. Maintaining good oral hygiene and continued supportive periodontal therapy are essential to help prevent periodontal disease from becoming more serious.
Click on the link below to read more about Arestin®.
