Q: I did not get any result after deep scaling and topical antibiotics (Arestin). What do I do now?
As you know in medicine, sometimes treatment is not successful or needs to be repeated multiple times. Example: epidural and steroid injections for pain relief (my cervical spine looks like a series of S-curves like turn #14 at the Miami Grand Prix), antibiotic treatment for infections, chemo and radiation therapy, etc.
Treating periodontitis, bone loss around teeth and infection of the gums, is often treated with SRPC, (Scaling, Root planning, and Curettage.) This removes stuck-on deposits along the roots, below the gumline, usually followed with placement of antibiotic granules in the pockets. Here is the protocol to evaluate and continue treatment if necessary:
Alternative Interventions:
- Repeat the treatment: Some providers may opt to apply Arestin again, as up to three applications may be used.
- Surgical treatments which involve flaps, bone grafting, gum trimming and suturing.
- Laser Therapy: Implementation of laser-assisted periodontal treatment.
- Systemic Antibiotics: Prescription of oral antibiotics to combat underlying infection.
Dr. Jonathan’s response:
(Maybe discuss in more detail the LANAP laser treatment and surgery options, periodontist referral, who really needs deep scaling; many corporate offices overdo it or bill insurance companies fraudulently. )