Periodontal Treatment & Arestin Therapy

Non-Surgical Treatment: Scaling and Root Planing

For many patients with gum disease, the first line of treatment is scaling and root planing—a deep cleaning below the gum line. During this procedure:

• Plaque and tartar are carefully removed from tooth surfaces and beneath the gums.
• Root surfaces are smoothed to help gums reattach and discourage bacterial buildup.
• Local anesthesia may be used for comfort.

This deep cleaning can halt disease progression and promote healing without the need for surgery in many cases.

ARESTIN®: Powerful Antibiotic Support

In some cases, deep cleaning alone isn’t enough. That’s where ARESTIN®, a locally administered antibiotic, comes in.

• ARESTIN® contains minocycline microspheres that fight the bacteria responsible for gum infections.
• It’s placed directly into infected gum pockets immediately after scaling and root planing.
• The medication begins working right away and continues to fight bacteria for up to 30 days.
• Clinical studies show that ARESTIN® provides better results than deep cleaning alone, especially in deeper pockets.

ARESTIN® treatment is painless and requires no recovery time. It enhances healing and helps reduce pocket depth, making it an excellent tool in managing chronic periodontitis.

Advanced Periodontal Procedures

If gum disease progresses despite initial treatment, your periodontist may recommend surgical procedures, including:

• Flap surgery (pocket reduction): Lifting the gums to remove deep deposits and reduce pocket depth.
• Bone grafts: Rebuilding lost bone with natural or synthetic materials.
• Gum grafts: Covering exposed roots and restoring gumline appearance.

These advanced procedures aim to regenerate tissue, reduce infection, and preserve your natural teeth.

Ongoing Maintenance for Lasting Results

After treatment, maintenance is crucial. You’ll likely be placed on a periodontal maintenance program with professional cleanings every 3–4 months. These visits remove new tartar, monitor pocket depth, and keep gum disease from returning.

Your long-term success depends on excellent oral hygiene at home, regular dental visits, and a healthy lifestyle. With consistent care, most patients can manage gum disease and enjoy a healthy smile for years to come.