Why We Use Antibiotics During Gum Disease Treatment
Posted on 8/9/2021 by Amir Hosseini, DDS
Antibiotic treatment can be beneficial in healing all throughout the body. Antibiotics are sometimes used in conjunction with other treatments or remedies, but sometimes they are also used independently. There are different types of antibiotics that can be used in the treatment of gum disease. Topical antibiotics and oral antibiotics are the two most common. Depending on the severity of the disease, antibiotics may eliminate disease-causing bacteria or otherwise reduce bacteria.
Gum Disease
Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums which is often caused by infection. When the inflammation turns into a more serious infection, it becomes periodontitis. Gum disease is a major cause of tooth loss and can impact the body's overall health if left untreated. This is caused when food and plaque get stuck in spaces between the gums and teeth. Plaque getting trapped can be unnoticed until gingivitis is present and requiring treatment.
Types of Medications Used
There are different medications used depending on the individual and the severity of the gum disease. Some of the antibiotics are used along with other treatment methods, including scaling and root planing. Tetracycline is a common antibiotic used to fight bacteria. It serves to help reduce inflammation and block the protein collagenase that destroys the connective tissue and bone. Other antibiotics, including Azithromycin, Metronidazole and Ciprofloxacin, are used for more specific concerns or in conjunction with other medications.
There are many forms of gum disease that may not require medication to be treated. However, the advantage of using topical antibiotics versus oral antibiotics is that they are directed at specific target areas and do not affect the entire body. If you have questions about gum disease or a treatment that will work for you, please call our office, and our periodontists can help.
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Antibiotic treatment can be beneficial in healing all throughout the body. Antibiotics are sometimes used in conjunction with other treatments or remedies, but sometimes they are also used independently. There are different types of antibiotics that can be used in the treatment of