Gum disease is the most common dental problem in the world, affecting roughly 50% of adults in the U.S. while also being the leading cause of tooth loss!
While your dentist has many ways they can help you avoid and treat this issue, one you may not have heard of is called Arestin. This is a type of antibiotic designed to remove the most well-hidden and hardest-to-reach bacteria that can cause all sorts of problems if left alone.
What exactly is Arestin, how does it work, and what would make your dentist recommend it for you?
What is Arestin?
Arestin is a topical antibiotic that is applied to remove gum disease bacteria. The offending bacteria like to hide deep below the gum line, which makes them extremely hard to remove even with professional cleaning.
It’s actually countless tiny microspheres that look like a paste to the naked eye.
Arestin is placed well within these pockets so that the active antimicrobial agent can kill the bacteria before they have a chance to spread or cause additional symptoms.
How Does it Work?
After you have been diagnosed with gum disease, your dentist will perform a thorough cleaning procedure called scaling and root planing to remove as much of the bacteria-filled plaque and tartar from your mouth as possible.
Afterward, they will use a small instrument to inject Arestin into the gum pockets. Over the course of a week or so, the microspheres will slowly dissolve, exposing the area to the antibiotic. This gradual method means you get to benefit from professional-strength treatment for several days after your appointment.
Why Would You Need Arestin?
You might be a candidate for Arestin if you’re showing obvious signs of gum disease, such as:
- Noticeably red or swollen gums
- Tender gums that bleed easily during brushing
- Persistent bad breath that doesn’t go away
- Loose or shifting teeth
Daily brushing and flossing along with getting professional cleanings twice a year can largely prevent someone from developing gum disease, but if it does occur, Arestin offers a gentle and extremely effective treatment that you and your dentist can rely on.
About the Author
Dr. Alberto Lamberti is a graduate of the prestigious Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, where he served as an Assistant Professor in the Prosthodontics Program for nearly ten years. He proactively works to help his patients avoid gum disease but also offers several solutions for those dealing with this problem, including Arestin.
If you’re worried about your gums or have already been diagnosed with gum disease, schedule an appointment here or call us today at 561-338-7535.