ARESTIN® in Bethesda & Chevy Chase, MD

Periodontal disease is an aggressive gum disorder that only gets worse with time if treatment isn’t sought out as soon as possible. Thankfully, the art and science of modern dentistry have produced many options for the management of this disease, such as scaling and root planing for early-onset periodontitis, and laser gum therapy for more advanced cases. In addition to these treatments, there are also antibiotic options for the maintenance of periodontal disease that target the gum infection locally. 

At her dental practice, Smiles of Chevy Chase, experienced dentist Dr. Despina Markogiannakis can administer ARESTIN, a locally applied antibiotic, for those who may require additional maintenance in the treatment of their periodontitis. Contact our Chevy Chase, MD, dental office at (301) 652-0656 and schedule a thorough dental examination if you think you could be suffering from gum disease.

ARESTIN® is a powerful antibiotic used in treating periodontal disease. It contains minocycline hydrochloride microspheres that dentists place directly into infected gum pockets. This targeted approach kills harmful bacteria and reduces inflammation, complementing other gum disease treatments.

What Is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease is a serious gum infection that damages soft tissue and can destroy the bone supporting your teeth. It begins with bacterial growth in your mouth and, if left untreated, can lead to tooth loss. Common symptoms include:

• Red, swollen, or tender gum tissue
• Bleeding while brushing or flossing
• Receding gums
• Persistent bad breath
• Loose teeth

Early diagnosis and treatment are vital to prevent the progression of this condition.

ARESTIN® is most effective for patients with mild to moderate gum disease. Our Chevy Chase dentist will assess your gum pocket depth during the examination to determine if ARESTIN® should be part of your periodontal maintenance program. This treatment is particularly beneficial when combined with scaling and root planing (SRP).

Benefits of ARESTIN®

ARESTIN® has many benefits, especially when used in conjunction with scaling and root planing treatment. Some of those benefits include:

• Targeted treatment: Applies directly to infected areas
• Extended-release: Continues working for days after application
• Enhances SRP results: Significantly reduces gum pocket size compared to SRP alone
• Non-invasive: Requires no surgery or anesthesia

If you’re suffering from symptoms of gum disease, contact our dentist in Chevy Chase, MD, today at (301) 652-0656 to schedule an appointment.

ARESTIN® administration is a straightforward procedure:

1. Your dental hygienist will perform scaling and root planing to remove plaque and tartar.
2. Using a disposable cartridge, she'll apply ARESTIN® directly into the affected gum pockets.
3. The antibiotic, in powder form, is absorbed by the surrounding tissues.
4. No sealing or removal is necessary - the product biodegrades naturally.

The entire process is typically painless and doesn't require local anesthesia.

What to Expect After Treatment

Post-treatment care is minimal but important:

• Patients should not chew gum or eat hard or sticky foods for a week
• Refrain from flossing the treated area for one to two weeks
• Expect mild to moderate sensitivity for a few days

If you experience excessive pain, swelling, or other unusual symptoms, contact our Chevy Chase dental office immediately.

If you’re diagnosed with periodontal disease, some of the costs of your ARESTIN® treatments may be covered by your dental insurance. A member of our team will get in touch with your provider to ascertain your coverage. From there, we will determine any out-of-pocket costs. For some treatments, our office accepts medical financing, as well as an array of other payment methods.

Is ARESTIN® safe?

Yes, ARESTIN® is FDA-approved, but as with any medication, you should discuss any allergies you may have as well as potential side effects with your dentist. ARESTIN® should not be taken if you are allergic to minocycline or tetracyclines.

How long does ARESTIN® continue working?

ARESTIN® releases antibiotics for up to 30 days after application.

Are there any side effects of ARESTIN® treatment?

While ARESTIN® is generally well-tolerated, some patients may experience:

• Headache
• Tooth sensitivity
• Mild gum discomfort
• Redness at the application site

These effects are usually temporary. Reach out to a dental professional if you experience any persistent issues.

Take Action Against Gum Disease

Don't let periodontal disease compromise your oral health. ARESTIN®, combined with proper dental care, can significantly improve your gum health. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Markogiannakis at Smiles of Chevy Chase to discuss whether ARESTIN® is right for you.

Contact us today at (301) 652-0656 or book online to start your journey towards healthier gums.