If you are struggling with gum disease, antibiotic periodontal treatment in Santa Fe and Los Alamos, New Mexico, may be a valuable step toward restoring your oral health. This targeted therapy is designed to eliminate the harmful bacteria responsible for periodontal infections, often in conjunction with other treatments like scaling and root planing or periodontal surgery. At Ghiassi Periodontics, we tailor every treatment to your specific needs, and antibiotic therapy may be part of your customized plan.
How Antibiotic Treatment Works
Antibiotic treatment for periodontal disease, also known as antimicrobial therapy, works by reducing or eliminating the bacterial populations that cause inflammation and tissue damage. Our experienced periodontist will first assess the severity of your condition to determine if this approach is appropriate. In many cases, the antibiotic is placed directly into the deep gum pockets where infection is most concentrated. This direct application allows the medication to work precisely where it is needed most.
Common antibiotics used in periodontal treatment include doxycycline, minocycline, tetracycline and metronidazole. These antibiotics are formulated to inhibit the growth of harmful oral bacteria and may be delivered in various forms such as gels, microspheres, or fibers. Examples include ARESTIN®, ATRIDOX® and PerioChip®, each designed for gradual, sustained release of the medication to ensure prolonged effectiveness.
Combining Antibiotics With Other Therapies
While antibiotics are effective in fighting bacteria, they are rarely used as the sole treatment for gum disease. Our periodontist may perform scaling and root planing to remove plaque and tartar from beneath the gumline before administering the antibiotic. In more advanced cases, a surgical procedure may be necessary to reduce pocket depth and allow for better access to the infected areas.
Supporting Your Healing at Home
Following antibiotic periodontal treatment, it is important to adhere closely to all aftercare instructions. Good home care, including proper brushing, flossing and possibly the use of an antimicrobial mouth rinse, will support your healing and help prevent the return of infection. Dr. Jordan Ghiassi may also recommend regular maintenance visits to monitor your progress and perform ongoing cleanings.
If you have questions about antibiotic periodontal treatment in Santa Fe and Los Alamos, New Mexico, or would like to find out if this therapy is right for you, we invite you to contact our office and schedule an appointment. Our experienced team is here to help you regain and maintain a healthy smile.