Antibiotic Treatment for Patients in the Las Vegas, NV, Area

Periodontal disease is a progressive condition that leads to severe inflammation and tooth loss if left untreated.  Antibiotic treatments can be used in combination with scaling and root planning, curettage, surgery, or as a stand-alone treatment to help reduce bacteria before and/or after many common periodontal procedures. At Radiant Smiles, we take proper precautions with our dental treatments and provide antibiotic treatments to patients in Las Vegas, Nevada, and surrounding areas.

What Antibiotic Treatments Are Used For

Research has shown that in the case of acute periodontal infection, refractory periodontal disease, prepubertal periodontal disease, and juvenile periodontal disease, antibiotic treatments have been incredibly effective.

Antibiotics can be prescribed at a low dose for longer-term use, or as a short-term medication to deter bacteria from re-colonizing.

Enhanced Bacterial Elimination

Periodontal disease is primarily caused by the buildup of harmful bacteria in the oral cavity, leading to inflammation and tissue damage. Antibiotics specifically target these bacteria, reducing their numbers and slowing down the progression of the disease. This, in turn, aids in halting the destruction of the gum tissues and supporting bone.

Improved Healing and Tissue Regeneration

In the advanced stages of periodontal disease, there may be significant tissue loss. Antibiotic treatment can facilitate a faster healing response, allowing the gums to regenerate and reattach to the tooth surfaces. This process is crucial for restoring oral health and preventing tooth loss.

Reduction in Inflammation

Antibiotics have anti-inflammatory properties that help in reducing the swelling and redness associated with gum disease. By mitigating inflammation, patients experience relief from pain and discomfort.

Preventing Recurrence

When used in conjunction with scaling and root planing (a deep cleaning procedure), antibiotic treatment can significantly decrease the chances of disease recurrence. By eradicating bacteria that have become resistant to traditional cleaning methods, antibiotics enhance the effectiveness of the overall treatment.

Systemic Health Benefits

Periodontal disease has been linked to several systemic health conditions, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and respiratory issues. By controlling the bacterial load in the oral cavity, antibiotic treatment can potentially reduce the risk of these complications and improve overall health.

Types of Antibiotic Treatments

Antibiotic treatments come in several different types, including oral forms and topical gels which are applied directly into the gum pockets.

Oral Antibiotics

Oral antibiotics tend to affect the whole body and are less commonly prescribed than topical gel.  Here are some specific details about several different types of oral antibiotics:

• Tetracycline antibiotics– Antibiotics which include tetracycline hydrochloride, doxycycline, and minocycline are the primary drugs used in periodontal treatment.  They have antibacterial properties, reduce inflammation, and block collagenase (a protein that destroys the connective tissue).
• Macrolide antibiotics– This group of antibiotics has proven effective at reducing inflammation and can also reduce bacterial growth associated with periodontitis.
• Metronidazole– This antibiotic is generally used in combination with amoxicillin or tetracycline to combat inflammation and bacterial growth in severe or chronic periodontitis.

Topical Gels and Strips

The biggest advantage of the direct delivery of antibiotics to the surfaces of the gums is that the whole body is not affected.  Topical gels and direct delivery methods tend to be preferred over their oral counterparts and are extremely effective when used after scaling and root planing procedures. Here are some of the most commonly used direct-delivery antibiotics:

• Atridox^®– This doxycycline gel conforms to the contours of gum surfaces and solidifies over them. Over several days, this gel gradually releases the antibiotic medication.
• PerioChip^®– This chip is placed into the actual gum pocket after the root planing PerioChip® slowly releases Chlorhexidine, a powerful antibacterial antiseptic. PerioChip^® reduces pocket depth in most cases in periodontitis sufferers.
• Actisite^®– This thin strip is similar to dental floss and contains tetracycline hydrochloride. The thread is placed temporarily directly between the tooth and gum to kill bacteria and reduce the depth of gum pockets. Several threads are sometimes placed for around 10 days to enhance the antibiotic effect.
• Elyzol^®– This metronidazole antibiotic comes in gel and strip form. It is unique because it is able to destroy parasites as well as oral bacteria.
• Arestin^®– This Minocycline antibiotic comes in mini capsules which are delivered into the gums after scaling and root planning.

Noticeable periodontal improvements are usually seen after systemic or oral antibiotic treatment. Your Periodontist or dentist will incorporate and recommend the necessary antibiotic treatments as necessary for the healing of your periodontal condition.

Visit Our Office Today

If you are having a dental problem such as periodontal disease, visit Radiant Smiles near the Las Vegas, NV, area for expert treatment. Our team of professional, skilled, and experienced dentists can help you with all your dental needs. Contact us today to learn more.

If you have any questions about periodontal disease or antibiotic treatments, please ask your dentist.