Antibiotics: Fight Gum Disease With This Versatile Treatment
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common dental problem that affects millions of Americans and many people worldwide. Fortunately, antibiotics used either alone or in conjunction with other treatments can help fight gum disease. At Chapko & Shah Modern Dentistry, our Belvidere dentists can prescribe antibiotics to help you control your symptoms and increase the effectiveness of your treatment.
What Are Antibiotics?
Antibiotics are powerful medications used to fight bacterial infections. They work by killing bacteria or preventing them from reproducing. There are two main types of antibiotics used to treat gum disease: oral and topical antibiotics.
Oral antibiotics are taken by mouth, while topical antibiotics are applied directly to the gums. They are often used in combination with other gum disease treatments, such as scaling and root planing, and pocket reduction to eliminate bacteria and reduce inflammation. Common oral antibiotics include doxycycline, amoxicillin, and metronidazole, while chlorhexidine and minocycline are common topical antibiotics.
Benefits of Antibiotic Gum Disease Treatment
Antibiotic gum disease therapy offers many benefits, including:
- Helps reduce inflammation and swelling in the gums
- Kills the bacteria that cause gum disease
- Helps prevent the infection from spreading to other areas of the mouth
- Can be combined with other treatments such as root planing and scaling and pocket reduction for more effective results
Who Qualifies for Antibiotic Gum Disease Treatment?
Your dentist may recommend antibiotic gum disease treatment for patients who:
- Have moderate to severe gum disease
- Have deep pockets around their teeth
- Have gum disease that hasn’t improved with other treatments
- Are at risk of developing a more severe form of gum disease
If you’re unsure whether antibiotic gum disease treatment is right for you, speak to your dentist for advice. They’ll be able to tell you if you qualify during your initial consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, using antibiotics to treat gum disease is generally safe. However, like all medications, antibiotics can have side effects. Your dentist will discuss any potential risks with you before starting treatment.
Like any medication, antibiotics can have side effects. However, the side effects of antibiotic gum disease therapy are generally mild and short-lived. Some common side effects may include diarrhea, nausea, and an upset stomach. If you experience any side effects, be sure to contact your dentist for advice on how to manage them.
Antibiotic gum disease treatment can take several weeks to work. However, this time frame can vary based on numerous factors including your oral hygiene routine, your diet, and how well you keep up with your treatments. Your dentist will monitor your progress and may adjust your treatment plan if needed.
No, you don’t need to take antibiotics for the rest of your life. However, you may need to take them for a few weeks or months, depending on the severity of your gum disease.
