What medication is good for applying on periodontitis?
Generally, periodontitis is an inflammatory condition of the periodontal tissues caused by stimulation from dental plaque and calculus. Common symptoms include redness, swelling, and bleeding of the gums, as well as periodontal pocket formation. Patients may follow medical advice to use topical medications such as minocycline hydrochloride ointment, iodoform glycerin, metronidazole gel, compound chlorhexidine mouthwash, and kangfuxin solution. Specific details are as follows:
1. Minocycline Hydrochloride Ointment
This is a tetracycline-class antibiotic ointment that inhibits protein synthesis in periodontal pathogens, killing bacteria and reducing periodontal inflammation. The medication can be directly injected into periodontal pockets, maintaining a high local concentration. It is suitable for patients with moderate to severe periodontitis, particularly effective in cases accompanied by periodontal abscesses.
2. Iodoform Glycerin
Its main component is iodine, which has disinfectant, antiseptic, and astringent properties. It kills bacteria within periodontal pockets, reduces bacterial growth, promotes resolution of gingival inflammation, and alleviates symptoms such as gum redness, swelling, and bleeding. With minimal irritation, it is suitable for patients at all stages of periodontitis and is especially recommended for topical application after basic periodontal therapy to assist in controlling inflammation.
3. Metronidazole Gel
A nitroimidazole-class antimicrobial gel with strong inhibitory effects against common anaerobic bacteria associated with periodontitis. It can be applied directly to swollen gum areas or into periodontal pockets to suppress anaerobic bacterial proliferation and reduce inflammatory responses in periodontal tissues. It is ideal for periodontitis primarily caused by anaerobic infection and is commonly used as an adjunctive local treatment.
4. Compound Chlorhexidine Mouthwash
Although typically used as a rinse, a small amount can also be applied topically to the gum surface or periodontal pocket opening. The chlorhexidine and metronidazole it contains provide broad-spectrum antibacterial action, inhibiting Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria as well as anaerobes. This helps reduce plaque formation and relieve gingival inflammation. It is suitable for local anti-inflammatory use during acute phases of periodontitis or as part of daily oral care.
5. Kangfuxin Solution
This agent promotes blood circulation, nourishes yin, and supports tissue regeneration. When applied locally to damaged periodontal mucosa or gums, it facilitates repair of periodontal tissues, accelerates wound healing, reduces inflammatory exudation, and relieves gum swelling and pain. It is particularly useful as an adjunctive treatment for gum or mucosal damage caused by periodontitis or following periodontal surgery, aiding tissue recovery.
Maintaining good daily habits is important: brush teeth morning and night, clean interdental spaces with dental floss, and undergo regular periodontal cleaning (teeth cleaning). Avoid spicy, irritating, overly cold, or hot foods to minimize irritation to periodontal tissues. If periodontitis symptoms worsen—such as development of periodontal abscesses or tooth mobility—seek prompt professional dental care to prevent disease progression.