Arestin Antibiotic Therapy

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Arestin antiobotic therapy

Gum Disease Treatment

Periodontal disease is a serious infection under your gum line.

ARESTIN® (minocycline hydrochloride) is an antibiotic that kills the bacteria that causes the infection.

It’s placed directly in the infected areas—or “pockets”—in your gums.
It’s applied right after scaling and root planing, the dental procedure that disrupts stubborn plaque and bacteria below your gum line—where brushing and flossing can’t reach.

ARESTIN® starts working quickly, right at the source of infection, and keeps fighting bacteria long after you leave the dental office. ^1,2

ARESTIN® fights infection and inflammation for 30 days,² and provides significantly better results than scaling and root planning alone for up to 90 days.³

1. Oringer RJ, Al-Shammari KF, Aldredge WA, et al. Effect of locally administered minocycline microspheres on markers of bone resorption. J Periodontol 2002;73:835-842.
2. Goodson JM, Gunsollwy JC, Grossi SG, et al. Minocycline HCl microspheres reduce red-complex bacteria in periodontal disease therapy. J Periodontol 2007;78(8):1568-1579.
3. Williams RC, Paquette DW, Offenbacher S, et al. Treatment of periodontitis by local administration of minocycline microspheres: a controlled trial. J Periodontol 2001;72:1535-1544

Ready to Treat Gum Disease with Arestin in Chesterfield, MO?

If you’ve been told you have gum disease or are experiencing symptoms like bleeding, swollen, or receding gums, Arestin Antibiotic Therapy may be part of your path to healthier gums.

At Licata Dental in Chesterfield, MO, Dr. Faye Licata, DMD takes the time to evaluate your unique needs and create a treatment plan designed for long-term results — not just short-term fixes.

Schedule a consultation today to find out if Arestin is right for you.

Frequently Asked Questions
arestin antibiotic therapy

What is Arestin Antibiotic Therapy?

Arestin is a locally applied antibiotic used to treat gum disease. It contains minocycline, a time-released antibiotic delivered as small microspheres placed directly into the gum pockets around affected teeth. Arestin works by targeting the bacteria responsible for periodontal infection, reducing inflammation and helping the gums heal. At Licata Dental, it's often used in combination with scaling and root planing as part of a comprehensive gum disease treatment plan.

How does Arestin work?

Arestin is placed directly into the gum pockets after a deep cleaning (scaling and root planing). The tiny microspheres release the antibiotic over 14 to 21 days, continuously targeting bacteria at the site of infection. Because the medication works locally where it's needed most, Arestin is more effective than oral antibiotics for treating gum disease and avoids the side effects that come with systemic antibiotic use.

Who is a good candidate for Arestin treatment?

Arestin may be recommended for patients with moderate to advanced gum disease, particularly those with gum pockets deeper than 5 millimeters. During your exam, Dr. Faye Licata, DMD will evaluate the depth of your gum pockets and the health of your gum tissue to determine whether Arestin is right for you. It's often used for patients who haven't responded fully to scaling and root planing alone.

Does Arestin treatment hurt?

No, Arestin placement is virtually painless. The microspheres are applied directly into the gum pockets with a small applicator, and most patients feel no discomfort during the procedure. Because Arestin is usually applied during or after scaling and root planing, any mild sensitivity you experience is typically from the deep cleaning itself — not from Arestin.

What should I expect after Arestin treatment?

After Arestin is placed, avoid brushing or flossing the treated area for 12 hours and avoid eating hard, crunchy, or sticky foods for 7 to 10 days. Continue gentle oral hygiene everywhere else, and skip dental floss or toothpicks around the treated teeth for 10 days. Most patients experience no significant discomfort and can return to normal activities immediately.

How effective is Arestin Antibiotic Therapy?

Clinical studies have shown that Arestin, when used alongside scaling and root planing, is significantly more effective than scaling and root planing alone at reducing gum pocket depth and improving gum health. Results vary by patient, but most see meaningful improvement in gum health within a few weeks. Maintaining good oral hygiene and attending regular periodontal maintenance visits is essential for long-term results.

Will I need Arestin treatment more than once?

Some patients receive Arestin as a one-time adjunct to scaling and root planing and never need it again — especially if they follow good oral hygiene and attend regular periodontal maintenance visits. Others with advanced or recurring gum disease may benefit from additional Arestin treatments over time. Dr. Licata will recommend an ongoing care plan based on your individual response and gum health.