Medications for Periodontal Disease

by Rosalyn Carson-DeWitt, MD

The information provided here is meant to give you a general idea about each of the medications listed below. Only the most general side effects are included, so ask your health care provider if you need to take any special precautions. Use each of these medications as recommended by your health care provider, or according to the instructions provided. If you have further questions about usage or side effects, contact your health care provider.

Antibiotics to help treat periodontal disease are still being studied. Medications may be delivered in a number of ways, including:

As pills, taken by mouth
As tiny fibers, microchips, or microspheres that can be placed between the teeth or into deep gum pockets to slowly release the medicine into the surrounding area
As gels that can be instilled into infected pockets in the gums

Prescription Medications

Tetracyclines

Common names include:

Tetracycline
Doxycycline
Minocycline

Be sure to take tetracycline with food, to avoid stomach upset. Wait two hours between taking antacids or milk and taking a dose of tetracycline. Doxycycline and minocycline can be taken without food or milk. Always take these medicines with a full glass of water.

While you are taking tetracycline, tell your healthcare provider or dentist prior to any medical or dental procedures or surgeries.

Possible side effects include:

Stomach cramps, burning
Diarrhea
Nausea, vomiting
Permanent tooth discoloration in children (from taking tetracycline, or from their mothers taking it while pregnant)
Increased sun sensitivity
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Decreased effectiveness of oral contraceptives

Special Considerations

Whenever you are taking a prescription medication, take the following precautions:

Take them as directed: not more, not less, not at a different time.
Do not stop taking them without consulting your health care provider.
Don�t share them with anyone else.
Know what effects and side effects to expect, and report them to your health care provider.
If you are taking more than one drug, even if it is over-the-counter, be sure to check with a physician or pharmacist about drug interactions.
Plan ahead for refills so you don�t run out.

SOURCES:

American Academy of Periodontology

American Dental Association

National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research

USP DI, 21st edition. Micromedex;2001.

Last reviewed October 2004 by Judy Logan, MD, MS

All EBSCO Publishing consumer health and medical information found on this site is accredited by URAC. URAC's Health Web Site Accreditation Program requires compliance with 53 rigorous standards of quality and accountability, verified by independent audits.