HealthWise KnowledgeBase
Antibiotics/Antimicrobials for Gum Disease
Why It Is Used
- To reduce bacteria in your mouth, antibiotic mouthwash may be prescribed for use after brushing and flossing.
- Topical antibiotics may be prescribed to treat early-stage gum disease (gingivitis) that cannot be slowed by improved brushing and flossing habits.
- Topical antibiotics may be prescribed to treat mild forms of advanced gum disease (Reference periodontitis Opens New Window).
- Sustained-release antibiotics may be inserted into the gum pocket for periodontitis.
- Antibiotic pills or capsules may be prescribed to treat moderate to severe periodontitis.
| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: August 5, 2011 |
| Medical Review: | Reference Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Reference Adam Husney, MD, MD - Family Medicine Reference Steven K. Patterson, BS, DDS, MPH - Dentistry |
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