Can someone tell me if Dentist should inject Arestin in pockets less than 4 mm?

Question:

I had a problem with deep pockets in my gums early in 2006. I went through a treatment plan where I got deep scaling and planing and I also had to have 9 arestin injections. I went 3 months after my last appt. as advised and got a regular cleaning and was told my teeth and gums look good. I am taking much better care of my mouth now also, and I never have any pain or swelling like I did before my treatment. I went back for a regular cleaning yesterday. The office now has a different Hygienist and Dentist. They measured my pockets again, calling out each measurment as they did. I know I did not count them measuring more than 33 times (to be honest it seemed like less), and 80% of the pockets were 2 or 3 mm. I had several 4 and 5 mm pockets and couple 6 mm pockets. They would only do a debridement yesterday and said I would have to go through the root scaling and planing all over again, with 33 Arestin injections!! Is this standard? It sounds like they are injecting even the 2 and 3 mm!

Answers:
All dental proffessionals are different. Some like to be aggressive with treatments, some will be more on the conservative side. If the last time you went to the dentist was early 2006, then it is possible that you would need another deep scaling. If you dont' go every 3-4 months as directed, the bacteria and plaque set up shop deep within those pockets, because they're easily accessable. (when you have periodontal disease, the gums come away from the teeth leaving a space)
Standard arestin placement is a 5mm pocket with bleeding. Or 6mm with/without bleeding. If they are placing antibotics in anything else.. it's overkill. Ask to see the previous dentist and hygenist.. they know your case better, and would probably not be so frivoluous with your money. Check with your insurance- they may not pay for another deep scaling.

Can someone tell me if Dentist should inject Arestin in pockets less than 4 mm?

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