Medications for Periodontal Disease
by
Rosalyn Carson-DeWitt, MD The information provided here is meant to give you a general idea about each of the medicines listed below. Only the most general side effects are included, so ask your dentist or doctor if you need to take any special precautions. Use each of these medicines as recommended by your doctor or according to the instructions provided. If you have further questions about usage or side effects, contact your doctor. Medicines used to treat periodontal disease may be delivered in a number of ways, such as:
Prescription MedicationsOther macrolide antibiotics such as azithromycin, minocycline, and doxycycline Prescription MedicationsTetracyclineTetracycline is a type of antibiotic used to fight bacterial infections. Take this medication on an empty stomach with a full glass of water. Certain over-the-counter products (such as antacids, calcium supplements, iron) can reduce the effectiveness of tetracycline. Talk to your doctor about any supplements or prescription medicines that you are taking. Possible side effects include:
This antibiotic should be avoided in pregnant or nursing women and in children less than 8 years old. MetronidazoleMetronidazole is another kind of antibiotic that is used to treat chronic cases of periodontal disease. This medicine may be used in combination with another drug. You can take metronidazole with food if the medicine upsets your stomach. Possible side effects include:
Metronidazole should not be taken if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding. This medicine may affect other prescription drugs—especially blood thinners. So, be sure that your doctor is aware of any medicines, including over-the-counter-products, that you are taking. Chlorhexidine GluconateChlorhexidine gluconate is another antibiotic that is used to prevent or treat periodontal disease. This medicine may be in the form of a mouthwash or a microchip. Possible side effects include:
This medication should be avoided in nursing women, children, and teenagers. Special ConsiderationsIf you are taking medicines, follow these general guidelines:
References:Gum disease risk factors. American Academy of Periodontology website. Available at:
https://www.perio.org/consumer/risk-factors.
Accessed August 17, 2016. Gum (periodontal) disease. NIH SeniorHealth website. Available at: ...(Click grey area to select URL) Accessed August 17, 2016. Periodontal disease. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. Available at: ...(Click grey area to select URL) Accessed August 17, 2016. Periodontal (gum) disease: Causes, symptoms, and treatments. National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research website. Available at: ...(Click grey area to select URL) September 2013. Accessed August 17, 2016. Periodontal treatments and procedures. American Academy of Periodontology website. Available at:
https://www.perio.org/consumer/treatments-procedures. Updated May 2011. Accessed August 17, 2016. Last reviewed February 2021 by EBSCO Medical Review Board | |
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