Arestin® Therapy | Gum Disease Treatment in Burlingame, California

Arestin® is a specialized antibiotic treatment that can be used along with scaling and root planing (deep cleaning) to help treat gum disease. It contains minocycline, an antibiotic that is placed directly into infected gum pockets where harmful bacteria live.

Unlike antibiotics taken by mouth, Arestin works right at the source of the infection. Tiny antibiotic-containing microspheres are gently placed into the gum pocket after your deep cleaning appointment. These microspheres slowly release medication over time, helping reduce bacteria and support the healing process.

Arestin is designed to complement—not replace—thorough deep cleaning and good home care. When used in appropriate cases, it can help improve treatment outcomes and support healthier gums.

Understanding Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease occurs when bacteria accumulates below the gumline, leading to inflammation and destruction of the supporting tissues around the teeth.

Common signs of periodontal disease include:

• Bleeding gums
• Persistent bad breath
• Gum recession
• Swollen or tender gums
• Deep periodontal pockets
• Bone loss around teeth
• Loose teeth

If left untreated, periodontal disease will result in progressive bone loss and eventual tooth loss.

Benefits of Arestin Therapy

• Targeted Treatment – Medication is delivered directly to the infected site rather than circulating throughout the entire body.

• Extended Antibiotic Release – Arestin continues working within the periodontal pocket after placement, helping suppress bacterial growth during healing.

• Minimally Invasive – No surgery or incisions are required.

• Improved Clinical Outcomes – When used with scaling and root planing, Arestin has been shown to improve pocket depth reduction and clinical attachment levels in appropriate patients.

• Comfortable Procedure – Placement is quick, requires no injections in most cases, and adds minimal time to your periodontal treatment visit.

What to Expect During Treatment

Periodontal Evaluation

Dr. Tina Yoo will measure the depth of the gum pockets around each tooth and evaluate bone levels and tissue health.

Scaling and Root Planing

Thorough cleaning below the gumline removes plaque, calculus, and bacterial deposits.

Healing Phase

Over the following weeks, the medication continues to release within the pocket while the tissues heal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Arestin a substitute for deep cleaning?

No. Arestin is used in conjunction with scaling and root planing and is not effective as a standalone treatment.

Will I need oral antibiotics too?

In many cases, no. Because Arestin is delivered directly into the periodontal pocket, systemic antibiotics are often unnecessary.

Does Arestin hurt?

Most patients experience little to no discomfort during placement.

Is Arestin permanent?

The medication gradually dissolves and is absorbed by the body. Ongoing periodontal maintenance and home care remain essential for long-term success.

Can Arestin cure gum disease?

Periodontal disease is a chronic condition that requires ongoing management. Arestin can be an effective tool in reducing bacterial infection and improving periodontal health, but continued maintenance and excellent oral hygiene are necessary to preserve results.

Periodontal Maintenance and Long-Term Success

Successful periodontal treatment extends beyond a single appointment. Regular periodontal maintenance visits, excellent home care, and early intervention when disease activity is detected are critical to protecting your teeth and supporting structures.

Arestin therapy is one of several advanced tools available to help control periodontal disease and preserve your natural smile for years to come.

Learn more about periodontal maintenance through our Patient Education library.