What type of prescription drugs can dental hygienists place for periodontal disease treatment?

Dental hygienists are authorized to place subgingival prescription drugs for the treatment of periodontal disease. This involves the application of medicament directly into the sulcus or pocket of the tooth, which allows for targeted treatment of periodontal issues. This specific method is effective in delivering therapeutic agents that can reduce bacteria and inflammation associated with periodontal disease, thus enhancing the overall treatment outcome.

In the context of periodontal therapy, subgingival applications can include various antimicrobial agents that are designed specifically for that route of delivery, ensuring that they act directly where the disease is located. This provides a more effective treatment than general medications that might not reach the affected area as adequately.

Oral options can include medications that a patient takes by mouth but do not allow for the direct targeting of periodontal areas. While intravenous and topical methods have their uses in dentistry, they are not typically designated for the periodontal treatment application that dental hygienists can provide in this context.