If you have gum disease, your dentist may advise more than just scaling and root planing. They could also suggest you get Arestin® as part of your overall treatment. Still, that raises a question: What is Arestin, anyway? You’ll likely want to address this point, so your Cranford periodontist will gladly help you out a bit. With that said, here’s a primer on Arestin, how it’s administered, and whether you’re a good candidate for it.
So, What *is* Arestin?
While scaling and root planing are the traditional fixes for gum disease, newer treatment options have emerged over the years. One of those happens to be Arestin.
Also known as Minocycline, Arestin is an antibiotic medication for gum infections. It’s designed to stop the growth of bacteria that inflame and infect a patient’s gum tissue. Given that fact, many dentists directly apply it to infection sites to treat harsh cases of gum disease.
Arestin is generally used alongside scaling and root planing procedures. When these services are combined with daily brushing and flossing, gum infections can be managed and even reversed.
How is Arestin Administered?
Knowing about Arestin is one thing. Next, you’ll want to address how this medicine is administered.
Note that the medicine isn’t a pill; it takes the form of an antibiotic powder. That means a dental hygienist applies it underneath your gum tissue during gum treatment or maintenance. From there, it’ll slowly kill the infecting bacteria over an extended period. The antibiotic usually finishes its work after several weeks or so.
Once Arestin is applied, a patient shouldn’t touch the treated areas for 7 days. They should also avoid having hard, crunchy, or chewy foods during that time.
Who’s a Good Candidate for Arestin?
Only a trained periodontist can confirm if Arestin is right for you. That said, there are some points to consider when assessing candidates.
In general, the best candidates are adults with severe gum disease. These folks have infections that can’t be completely managed with scaling and root planing. At the same time, they can take Arestin without side effects; the antibiotic isn’t suitable for children. (Exceptions to this latter point are those allergic to minocycline and pregnant or nursing women.)
At this point, you now have an answer to the question “What is Arestin?” Use that knowledge to decide whether to get it for your infected gums.
About the Practice
Cranford Center for Periodontics & Dental Implants is based in Cranford, NJ. Led by several amazing periodontists, our practice looks after ailing gums and smiles. We do so by offering gum disease treatments, periodontal surgeries, and various dental implant procedures. These and similar options ensure even the most broken grin can be restored! For more details or to book a visit, please contact us on our website or by phone at (908)-709-6777.