7 Steps To Follow To Ensure Success After Treatment Of Gum Disease With Antimicrobial Therapy

Antimicrobial therapy may not always succeed even after a dentist has opted to use it to prevent periodontal disease arising from infections. You must give your teeth and mouth the best home care to reap the benefits of antimicrobial treatment. However, be careful not to worsen the situation by not following your dentist's instructions.

Here are steps to follow for best results after receiving antimicrobial therapy:

1. The ideal way to stop worsening of gum disease is by regular brushing. Even after antimicrobial treatment, thorough cleansing of teeth and mouth is necessary. You must brush your teeth at least for two minutes, twice a day. 

2. Floss your teeth at least once every day. But if you have undergone local therapy, keep off from flossing at least for 2 days.    

3. You must also always rinse with mouthwash. To be safe, ask your dentist to prescribe a mouthwash with antiseptic. Sterile solutions in the mouthwash help control growth of bacteria that end up causing gum disease. 

4. Usually, your dentist may not prescribe an antibiotic because bacteria are highly resistant to most of these common drugs. However, you must take the full dose of any prescribed antibacterial medication to avoid strengthening bacteria. Some patients may have prescribed a drug that must be taken up to six months. Not even this drug should be abandoned midway. Antibiotics that may be prescribed for gum disease include the following:

  • Clindamycin: mainly prescribed for dental abscesses found in the bone or soft tissue. This drug is given when milder medications like penicillin have failed.
  • Chlorhexidine: This medicine is administered to control gingivitis, plaque and periodontal spaces in teeth and gums. 

5. Be sure to consult your dentist within the first three months of treatment for an examination to monitor the healing pattern of your mouth. If your mouth has not recovered as expected, the dentist will prescribe alternative medication. 

6. If your mouth has healed as expected, you can continue to see the dentist for routine checkups as before. These regular examinations include regular annual tests for periodontal tests and polishing. X-rays should be done every 4 to 5 years. 

7. Keep your mouth clean by visiting a dental hygienist regularly for teeth cleaning. Cleanliness should also be maintained through anti-microbial therapy, as the need arises. Good dental hygiene keeps gum disease away.

In case complications arise when at home, call a dentist first. Do not seek other alternatives without his consent.   


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