ARESTIN®

One of the treatments available for patients suffering from gum disease is Arestin®. Arestin is an antibiotic powder placed in the mouth after scaling and root planing treatments to prevent bacteria from developing into gum disease. For more information on Arestin in Alpharetta, Georgia, call Ace Dentistry Family Dental & Cosmetic Dentist at 678-562-1555, and make your appointment with our caring dentist, Dr. Pallavi Rakesh.

Arestin® (minocycline hydrochloride), is an effective antibiotic treatment for gum disease. It comes in powder form, and is placed inside infected periodontal pockets after a patient has completed the scaling and root planing procedure. Arestin is most effective as part of an overall oral health program that includes good oral hygiene.

Arestin contains microspheres, or tiny particles, that are smaller than grains of sand. These microspheres are filled with the antibiotic medication, which is released over time, killing off the bacteria that cause gum disease.

After you have received treatment, you should take steps to allow your gums to heal and avoid future gum disease. We suggest that you:

• Avoid touching areas of your gums that your dentist has treated for 1 week
• Wait 10 days before using floss, toothpicks, or other devices designed to clean between teeth in the areas that were treated with Arestin
• Avoid eating hard, crunchy, or sticky foods such as carrots, taffy, and gum for 1 week after treatment
• Be sure to return for your follow-up appointments, since periodontal (gum) disease can recur and gums need to be checked regularly
• Drink plenty of water
• Limit your smoking. Our dentist recommends that you consider quitting entirely

If you experience pain, swelling, or other problems, call our dentist immediately.