Arestin® is an antibiotic placed directly into the infected areas (pockets) in your gums. It is applied right after a professional dental cleaning in pockets that are 5mm deep or more. When you have a periodontal infection, millions of harmful bacteria are causing damage deep under your gums - where brushing and flossing can't reach. Arestin starts working immediately, fighting infection and inflammation for 30 days, and provides significantly better results than a deep cleaning (scaling & root planing) alone for up to 90 days. Your hygienist can help determine what areas need antibiotic treatment.