Doxycycline Gel

What Is Doxycycline Gel?

Doxycycline is a tetracycline antibiotic that works by preventing bacterial growth and managing different bacterial infections. A professionally compounded doxycycline gel may be applied in a custom-tray form and directly in the deep gum pockets next to the patient’s teeth. This is done in order to decrease the accumulation of bacteria and tar under the gum tissues. A doxycycline gel can be used together with mechanical instrumentation and periodontal treatments to significantly reduce bacterial burden. Doxycycline was first approved by the FDA in the 1960s for the treatment of Lyme disease, acne, and other medical conditions. Now, it has been proven to be an asset for general dentistry and periodontics.

What Is Used For?

The main purposes of using doxycycline gel include treating various periodontal diseases and preventing bacterial growth after the patient has undergone a dental procedure. Similar to other powerful antibiotics such as minocycline, it can also be used as a supplement before a scaling and root planning procedure. Many dentists also strongly recommend doxycycline gels for managing peri-implantitis or the inflammation and infection of soft and hard tissues surrounding dental implants. This antibiotic in gel form is also beneficial in stimulating osteoblasts, the cells the promote bone growth or regeneration. Proper dosage and application of doxycycline helps heal lost bone tissue at a faster pace while lessening the amount of bleeding around the teeth.