Overview of Local Antibiotic Therapy (Arestin)
Local Antibiotic Therapy, often known by the brand name Arestin, is a targeted periodontal treatment designed to eliminate harmful bacteria deep within gum pockets. When gum disease progresses below the gumline, bacteria collect in areas too narrow and deep for brushing, flossing, or standard cleaning to reach effectively.
Arestin delivers medication directly into these pockets, helping halt infection and promote healthier gum tissue.
At South Gables Dental, we use Arestin to reinforce the benefits of scaling and root planing and support long-term periodontal stability.
A Special Note from Dr. Lesperance:
Thanks for visiting South Gables Dental’s website! Arestin is an amazing tool in conjunction with scaling and root planing, to treat Periodontal disease. Our hygienists are highly trained to treat all of our patients!
Why Patients Need Local Antibiotic Therapy (Arestin)
Periodontal disease is a chronic bacterial infection. Even after scaling and root planing, some bacteria may remain inside periodontal pockets, where they continue to cause inflammation and tissue breakdown. Arestin targets these bacteria precisely where mechanical cleaning cannot always reach.
Gum Disease Is a Bacterial Infection
Periodontal pockets become reservoirs for bacteria that damage gum tissue, contribute to bone loss, trigger inflammation, and lead to tooth mobility. Arestin helps eliminate the bacteria that remain after scaling and root planing.
Deep Pockets Are Difficult to Treat Without Medication
Scaling and root planing remove bacteria mechanically, but deeper pockets may allow bacteria to recolonize. Arestin prevents this by delivering sustained antibacterial action to the affected site.
Periodontal Disease Is Chronic
Like many chronic conditions, gum disease requires ongoing management. Arestin provides additional support to control flare-ups and reinforce healing.
Early Treatment Prevents Major Problems
Uncontrolled periodontal infection can lead to painful abscesses, bone loss, tooth mobility, and eventual tooth loss. By stopping the infection early, Arestin helps preserve gum and bone structure.
What Local Antibiotic Therapy (Arestin) Is
Arestin is a non-surgical, localized antibiotic powder made of microspheres filled with minocycline. These microspheres are placed gently into infected periodontal pockets, where they slowly release medication over 14–21 days. The procedure involves no incisions, no sutures, and typically no anesthesia, making it a comfortable and effective adjunct to scaling and root planing. Arestin has been clinically proven to reduce pocket depth and enhance periodontal healing.
What Arestin Helps Treat
Arestin is used to manage moderate to advanced gum disease, persistent or deep pocketing, isolated areas that show continued inflammation, and active bacterial infection. It provides targeted therapy for problem areas that require additional support beyond mechanical cleaning.
How Local Antibiotic Therapy (Arestin) Works
Scaling and Root Planing
scaling and root planing removes plaque and tartar from root surfaces to prepare the pocket for medication.
Identifying Areas of Concern
Pocket depths are measured to determine where Arestin will be most effective.
Applying Arestin Microspheres
The powder is placed gently into the periodontal pocket using a tiny applicator.
Sustained Antibiotic Release
The microspheres adhere to the pocket, dissolve slowly, and release medication over several days.
Supporting Gum Healing
As the antibiotic reduces bacterial load, inflammation subsides and the gums begin to tighten around the tooth.
Monitoring and Follow-Up
Pocket depth and healing are evaluated at follow-up visits to ensure long-term stability.
Why We Use Arestin at South Gables Dental
Arestin allows us to treat infection at the source without relying on systemic antibiotics. Slow-release medication provides longer-lasting control, reduces inflammation, and supports improved gum attachment. This approach minimizes unnecessary medication exposure and enhances outcomes when compared with scaling and root planing alone. It is especially beneficial for localized or persistent pockets that require focused care.
Benefits of Local Antibiotic Therapy
Arestin provides both immediate and long-term periodontal benefits. Patients often experience reduced inflammation, greater comfort, decreased bleeding, and improved healing. Over time, this treatment helps prevent disease progression, protect bone and gum attachment, reduce the need for surgery, and support better maintenance outcomes. Arestin is a valuable part of preserving gum health and long-term oral stability.
What Happens If Arestin Is Not Used When Needed
If deep pockets continue to harbor harmful bacteria, periodontal disease can progress and lead to bone loss, chronic inflammation, bad breath, tooth mobility, and eventual tooth loss. Using Arestin when recommended helps interrupt this cycle and protect periodontal health.
How Often Arestin Is Needed
Arestin is often used after initial scaling and root planing, during periodontal maintenance visits, or in areas that show recurrent inflammation. Recommendations depend on pocket depth, gum response, bone levels, and individual risk factors. Treatment frequency is always customized.
What to Expect During an Arestin Appointment
Your appointment begins with a periodontal evaluation to identify the sites that would benefit from Arestin. The medication is applied gently, with most patients experiencing little to no sensation during the procedure. There is no downtime afterward, and home care instructions may include avoiding flossing in the treated area for 10–14 days and using gentle brushing techniques. Healing is evaluated at future visits.
Local Antibiotic Therapy as Part of Periodontal Care
Arestin works best when paired with scaling and root planing, periodontal maintenance, proper home care, and antibacterial rinses when recommended. Its sustained-release effect reinforces healing, controls bacteria long-term, and supports healthier, more stable gum tissue.
Common Questions About Arestin
Does Arestin hurt?
No. The application is quick, gentle, and painless.
Is Arestin safe?
Yes. It is FDA-approved and highly effective in periodontal therapy.
Do I need a prescription pill?
No. Arestin works locally, avoiding systemic antibiotic exposure.
How long does it release medication?
Typically 2–3 weeks as the microspheres dissolve.
Is this treatment necessary?
If recommended, it means bacteria remain in deep pockets that require targeted therapy to prevent progression.
A Clinical, Preventive Approach to Long-Term Gum Health
Local Antibiotic Therapy is a powerful, minimally invasive treatment that strengthens periodontal care and protects long-term oral health. If you’re managing gum disease or seeking targeted support after scaling and root planing, our Coral Gables, Florida team is here to provide precise, evidence-based care. We proudly serve patients throughout Miami and South Florida.
Your Trusted Dental Team for Local Antibiotic Therapy in South Gables, Florida
South Gables Dental is centrally located in Coral Gables, Florida, and proudly welcomes patients from Miami and the greater South Florida area. Our practice offers a modern, calming environment and a premium level of care tailored to periodontal health.
5 Reasons to Choose South Gables Dental
- Elevated, evidence-based periodontal treatment
- Gentle, precise application techniques
- Advanced diagnostics for accurate assessment
- A modern and calming patient environment
- Personalized periodontal plans for long-term gum stability
We are conveniently located south of Miami in Coral Gables:
South Gables Dental
4950 S Le Jeune Rd Suite C,
Coral Gables, FL 33146
305.665.1263
5 Reasons To Choose South Gables Dental:
- 30+ years dental expertise
- State of the art technology
- 5 star ratings
- Friendly, experienced staff
- Free parking in Coral Gables
Phone Number
305.665.1263