Determining when antibiotics should be used in treating gum disease

Shaping the Indications for Periodontal Adjunctive Antibiotics in Dental Practice: A PBRN Clinical Trial

NIH-funded research Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences · NIH-10897107

This study is looking at how and when dentists should use antibiotics to help treat gum disease, aiming to make sure patients get the best care while also preventing antibiotic resistance.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionRutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10897107 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the appropriate use of adjunctive antibiotics in the treatment of periodontal disease, which affects a significant portion of adults. It aims to establish clear guidelines for dentists on when antibiotics should be prescribed to enhance treatment outcomes while minimizing the risk of antibiotic resistance. By analyzing patient data and treatment results, the study seeks to identify specific cases where antibiotics can effectively aid in managing periodontal infections. The goal is to improve patient care and ensure that antibiotics are used judiciously in dental practices.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are diagnosed with chronic periodontitis and may require antibiotic treatment.

Not a fit: Patients with periodontal disease who are not candidates for antibiotic therapy or those who do not meet the study criteria may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better treatment protocols for periodontal disease, ultimately improving oral health and reducing tooth loss for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown varying success in the use of antibiotics for periodontal treatment, indicating a need for more definitive guidelines in this area.

Where this research is happening

Newark, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.