Arestin® Treatment for Gum Disease: How It Works and Why Bleeding Gums Matter

What Is Arestin® Treatment?

Gum disease (also called periodontal disease) is a bacterial infection that affects the gums and bone supporting your teeth. It begins when plaque and tartar accumulate below the gumline, allowing harmful bacteria to grow and inflame the gum tissue.

One of the most effective modern treatments for periodontal infections is Arestin®, a locally applied antibiotic that is used together with a deep cleaning procedure called scaling and root planing.

Instead of taking an antibiotic pill that circulates through your whole body, Arestin is placed directly into infected gum pockets where bacteria live. The medication consists of tiny antibiotic microspheres that slowly release medication over time to help eliminate bacteria and support healing.

At Remedy Dentistry, Dr. Balaes and our hygiene team use advanced periodontal therapies like Arestin to help patients control gum disease and protect their long-term oral health.

Bleeding Gums Are the #1 Sign of Gum Disease

Many people think bleeding gums are normal, but they are actually the most common early warning sign of gum disease.

Healthy gums should not bleed when you brush or floss.

If your gums bleed during brushing, flossing, or a dental cleaning, it usually means bacteria are causing inflammation along the gumline.

Other signs of gum disease may include:

  • Red or swollen gums
  • Tender gum tissue
  • Persistent bad breath
  • Gum recession (gums pulling away from teeth)
  • Deep pockets between the teeth and gums
  • Loose teeth in advanced stages

Catching gum disease early allows it to be treated more effectively and can help prevent permanent damage to the bone supporting your teeth.

How Arestin Works With Deep Cleaning

Arestin is typically used together with a periodontal procedure called scaling and root planing, often referred to as a deep cleaning.

Step 1: Scaling and Root Planing

During this treatment, your hygienist carefully removes plaque and hardened tartar from beneath the gumline. The roots of the teeth are also smoothed so bacteria have a harder time reattaching.

This process helps eliminate much of the bacterial infection responsible for gum disease.

Step 2: Arestin Placement

After the deep cleaning, Arestin may be placed directly into periodontal pockets around the teeth.

The antibiotic works by:

  • Killing harmful bacteria in the gum pockets
  • Reducing inflammation in the gum tissue
  • Helping gums reattach more securely to the teeth
  • Supporting the healing process

Because the medication stays directly in the pocket, it can continue fighting bacteria for days after the appointment.

Benefits of Arestin Therapy

When used with scaling and root planing, Arestin has been shown to significantly improve periodontal treatment outcomes.

Potential benefits include:

  • Reduction in periodontal pocket depth
  • Decreased bacterial infection
  • Reduced bleeding and inflammation
  • Improved gum attachment to teeth
  • Slower progression of gum disease

Clinical studies have shown that combining Arestin with deep cleaning may reduce bleeding gums significantly more effectively than scaling and root planing alone.

What Patients Can Expect During Treatment

Arestin placement is simple and quick.

During your visit:

  • The hygienist completes the deep cleaning procedure
  • Arestin powder is gently placed into infected gum pockets
  • The medication remains in place and slowly releases antibiotic

The process usually takes only a few minutes per site and is typically very comfortable.

After treatment, patients are usually advised to:

  • Avoid crunchy or sticky foods for about one week
  • Continue brushing and flossing normally
  • Maintain regular periodontal maintenance visits

Following these instructions helps ensure the medication stays in place and works effectively.

The Importance of Periodontal Maintenance

Gum disease is a chronic condition, meaning it requires ongoing monitoring and maintenance.

At Remedy Dentistry, Dr. Balaes and our hygiene team closely track periodontal health during your routine visits. Regular cleanings, periodontal measurements, and home care guidance all help control bacterial buildup and prevent disease progression.

If bleeding gums or deeper pockets are detected, treatments like scaling and root planing with Arestin may be recommended to stop the infection before it causes more serious damage.

Talk With Our Hygienist at Your Next Visit

If you have experienced bleeding gums, gum tenderness, or bad breath, it’s important to bring it up during your dental appointment. Our hygienists will evaluate your gum health and discuss whether periodontal treatments such as deep cleaning or Arestin therapy may benefit you. Early treatment can help protect your gums, prevent bone loss, and keep your natural teeth healthy for many years.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

Healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy smile. If you’ve noticed bleeding when brushing or flossing—or if it has been a while since your last periodontal evaluation—our team is here to help. Schedule your appointment today at Remedy Dentistry and let us help you restore and maintain healthy gums for life.

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