Alafaya Center for Cosmetic and Family Dentistry

Arestin®

Arestin is a localized antibiotic that is placed painlessly into a periodontal pocket to promote healing. It is often times used in conjunction with scaling and root planing but can be used as a spot treatment on a maintenance cleaning. Indications for use of Arestin are pockets 5mm or deeper. If you have gum disease your dental professional may recommend ARESTIN®.

Our hygienist, Deanna or Christina will monitor your gums at each dental visit. If we notice infected gum pockets we may recommend placing Arestin below the gumline. This may happen at the time of scaling and root planing or during a routine periodontal maintenance.

ARESTIN® is different from antibiotic pills

ARESTIN® is different from an antibiotic you take as a pill, because it’s placed right where you need it. A pill can’t give you the level of antibiotic concentration in your gums that ARESTIN® can.

Microspheres release antibiotics over time

ARESTIN® contains microspheres—tiny, bead-like particles—that are smaller than grains of sand and are not visible to the eye. The microspheres are filled with the antibiotic minocycline hydrochloride. These microspheres release the antibiotic over time, killing bacteria so your gums can heal better than with SRP alone.

After receiving treatment

Avoid chewing hard, crunchy, or sticky foods for 7 days. These include popcorn, caramel, and pretzels. You should also avoid using floss or a dental pick in the treated areas for 10 days.

Other tips for preventing gum disease

Drinking water can also help. Fluoridated tap water or bottled water helps prevent tooth decay.

If you’re a smoker, consider quitting. Smoking increases the likelihood of gum disease, tooth decay, and tooth loss. So on top of other health benefits, your dental health can also benefit from stopping smoking.

Maintain a good oral health routine

As your gums heal, it’s important to begin and maintain a good oral health routine. This should include brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing every day. Ask your dentist about the best oral hygiene products for you.

Here are a few products to consider:

• ADA-Accepted fluoride toothpaste
• A toothbrush with soft bristles—harder bristles can wear away enamel and damage your teeth and gums
• Electric toothbrushes—people with mobility or dexterity issues may find these easier to use
• Floss holders—these plastic devices hold a short length of floss. Many people prefer these to regular floss

Remember, you should replace your toothbrush every 3 or 4 months. Replace your toothbrush sooner if the bristles start to fray.