Antibiotics and Gum Infection

March 22nd, 2011 by | Print

Almost everyone gets affected by some sort of gum infection at one point.  Irritation of the gums starts when food particles are not properly cleansed from the mouth.  Mineral formation from these particles gets deposited at the gum line and the bacteria that start to thrive in this setting are contained by the plaque.  However, when plaque is not removed, its accumulation will lead to tooth caries and possible gum disease.  Gum infection are mostly caused by the bacteria in the mouth however other conditions could start this conditions among which are hormonal changes, stress, poor nutrition and pregnancy, among others.

Good oral hygiene plays a big role in preventing gum issues.  Brushing at least two times daily and flossing at least once will get you on the road away from gum diseases.  But then again, bear in mind that some conditions like those mentioned above can make a person prone to catch the three Gram-negative bacteria that cause gum problems.  Part of the treatment of when these bacteria indeed can’t be controlled is scrubbing the plaque and root planing to keep the teeth surface smooth and eliminate the buildup of plaque and tartar.

Dentists also prescribe antibiotics for inflamed gums especially for acute infections.  Antibiotics for my gum infection are recommended by oral experts to prevent bacteria from growing back.  This medication may be given orally or in topical forms applied to the agitated gums.  Dentists administer antibiotics along with periodontal surgery and even find the combined technique is more effective.  They are also looking into having antibiotics as substitute to surgery.  However, dental professionals are being careful in dispensing antibiotics as medication due to possibility of the bacteria resisting the drug if used for more than a certain period of time.

Some antibiotics administered for gum infection are tetracycline, macrolide (roxithromycin), quinolone (moxifloxacin, ciprofloxacin) and metronidazole (flagyl), among others.  Depending on the bacteria that attack, the enumerated medications are commonly used at standard dose and limited time frame.  These antibiotics are not only anti-bacterial but also anti-inflammatory to reduce the swelling of gums and relieve pain that go along with the problem.

Regular visit to your dentist, a good oral hygiene regimen using the correct products will give out best combination to fight against gum diseases.  Gum issues are not just a menace to oral health but it may contribute to aggravate conditions that a patient has.  So before things get worse with periodontal problems, cut it short by being meticulous with your oral health.

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