Patient reviewing a dental shade guide

After ARESTIN® Periodontal Treatment: General Instructions

ARESTIN® (minocycline HCl microspheres) is a prescription antibiotic that may be placed by a dental professional in periodontal pockets as an adjunct to scaling and root planing. If you receive it, follow the instructions given by the treating clinician.

For the first week

Avoid touching treated sites and avoid chewing hard, crunchy, or sticky foods with the treated teeth for one week.

For ten days

Do not use floss, dental picks, or other interproximal cleaning devices in the treated areas for 10 days unless your treating dental professional gives different instructions.

Continue the rest of your home care

Continue brushing as directed and maintain the rest of your oral-hygiene routine. Your dental professional may give additional instructions based on the periodontal treatment you received.

When to call

Contact the treating office promptly for unexpected pain, swelling, or other problems. Seek urgent medical help for symptoms of a serious allergic reaction such as difficulty breathing or swelling of the face, throat, or tongue.

Important: This medication is not appropriate for everyone. It should not be used by patients with a known allergy to minocycline or tetracyclines, and the prescribing information contains additional contraindications and warnings. Discuss your medical history, medications, pregnancy/nursing status, and allergies with the treating clinician.


This article is general dental education and is not a diagnosis or a substitute for an examination. If you have pain, swelling, trauma, or another concern, contact a dental or medical professional as appropriate.

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