There are a number of antibiotics used to treat gum disease and a variety of ways to administer them. Antibiotics can be taken orally, swallowing. Over the past few years there is a growing trend of applying the antibiotic directly to the gums. This can be done with a small antibiotic chip or gel. The chip or gel is placed in the periodontal pocket, the space between the tooth and the gum. Which antibiotic to use depends on the type of gum problem. For an acute abscess, penicillin or ampicillin is often used. For periodontal disease doxycyline and minocycline are common. Both of these drugs are tetracyclines. Most forms of gingivitis and periodontal problems respond to professional cleaning and home care. If you don't brush and floss, your condition will only get worse.
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