What Is Antimicrobial Therapy?
Antimicrobial therapy is a type of oral treatment that is used to eliminate bacterial infections or prevent them from developing further.
Antimicrobial treatment is the least invasive form of treatment used to address periodontal disease (gum disease). By eliminating harmful bacteria from the mouth with antibiotics, periodontal symptoms such as bleeding gums and loose teeth can be eliminated without surgical intervention.
If you suspect you may have gum disease, contact our team today!
Antimicrobial Therapy In Redmond, WA
- Antimicrobial therapy is a type of oral treatment that is used to eliminate bacterial infections or prevent them from developing further.
- Antimicrobial treatment is usually preceded by deep cleanings or scaling and root planing treatment.
- By eliminating harmful bacteria from the mouth with antibiotics, periodontal symptoms such as bleeding gums and loose teeth can be eliminated without surgical intervention.
- Antiseptic mouthwashes are the most common antimicrobial treatment. These prescription mouthwashes kill bacteria that attempt to grow on the gums and teeth
The Preparation & Treatment Process
Antimicrobial therapy usually begins with a deep oral cleaning that includes scaling and root planing. This process removes plaque buildup from the “pockets” caused by periodontal disease. These “pockets” contain a huge amount of bacteria and must be cleaned for antimicrobial treatments to be effective.
Using a scaler, Dr. Bickel will clean away plaque from your gumline. If periodontal pockets are very severe, gum flap surgery may be required to preserve gum integrity and prevent infection around the root surfaces and the teeth.
After the initial preparation process, you’ll be given your antimicrobial treatment.
Antiseptic mouthwashes are the most common antimicrobial treatment. These prescription-only mouthwashes contain powerful antibiotic agents like triclosan and chlorhexidine and help kill bacteria that attempt to grow on the gums and teeth. Usually, you’ll use this mouthwash for 7-10 days, depending on Dr. Bickel’s recommendations.
Oral antibiotic medications may also be administered, either topically or in pill form. In cases of severe periodontal disease, antibiotics like minocycline or doxycycline will be applied directly to the gum tissue in gel form.
Often, you will be prescribed both antiseptic mouthwash and oral antibiotics, to ensure treatment is effective.
The Importance Of Aftercare
Periodontal disease is caused by improper oral hygiene. Therefore, maintaining a good oral hygiene regimen after antimicrobial treatment is essential for your recovery. You must brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes at a time, and floss once daily. Mouthwash can be used if desired.
You should also ensure that, after initial treatment, you follow instructions, and take your prescribed medication regularly to prevent the infection from recurring. Dr. Bickel will schedule a follow-up appointment within 2-3 months to determine how the healing process is progressing.
If your antimicrobial treatment has been successful, you’ll be able to resume your normal oral care regimen. Just make sure you visit our office every 6 months for your regular check-ups. If it has not been successful, Dr. Bickel will explore alternative treatment options.
Got Gingivitis Or Periodontal Disease? Come To Redmond Art Of Dentistry Today!
The earlier gum disease is diagnosed, the easier it is to treat. If your gums are tender, inflamed, red, or bleeding, you could have gingivitis or periodontal disease.
With years of experience treating periodontal disease, Dr. Bickel can create a customized antimicrobial therapy treatment that’s perfect for your needs, ensuring that you recover from your periodontal disease.