If you’ve been diagnosed with periodontal (gum) disease, you may have heard about LANAP as a treatment option. But what exactly is LANAP, and how does it differ from traditional gum surgery? In this blog post, we’ll dive into the basics of LANAP so you can feel informed and confident about your treatment choices.
What is LANAP?
LANAP stands for Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure, a cutting-edge, minimally invasive treatment designed to combat moderate to severe gum disease. Instead of using scalpels and sutures like in traditional periodontal surgery, LANAP employs a PerioLase MVP-7 laser to selectively target and remove diseased gum tissue while leaving healthy tissue intact.
How Does LANAP Work?
The LANAP procedure involves the following steps:
- Laser Treatment: The PerioLase laser targets the infected areas of the gums, removing bacteria and diseased tissue without harming surrounding healthy tissue.
- Ultrasonic Cleaning: After the laser treatment, ultrasonic instruments are used to clean and remove tartar from the tooth roots, which contribute to gum disease.
- Laser Sealing: The laser then creates a natural clot to seal the treated areas, promoting faster healing and reducing the need for sutures.
Benefits of LANAP
LANAP offers a number of advantages over traditional gum surgery:
- Less pain and discomfort: Since the procedure is minimally invasive, patients often experience less pain, swelling, and bleeding.
- Faster recovery time: With no need for stitches, healing is generally quicker and easier for most patients.
- Preservation of healthy tissue: LANAP only targets diseased tissue, helping to preserve healthy gums and bone.
- Potential for bone regeneration: One of LANAP’s unique benefits is that it encourages regeneration of the bone around the teeth, which is especially important for advanced cases of gum disease.
Who is a Good Candidate for LANAP?
If you have been diagnosed with moderate to severe gum disease, LANAP may be an ideal treatment for you. It’s particularly suited for patients who:
- Have avoided traditional gum surgery due to fear of pain or lengthy recovery times.
- Are looking for a less invasive treatment option.
- Want to reduce the risk of tooth loss due to advanced periodontal disease.
However, it’s important to consult with a certified periodontist who is trained in LANAP to determine whether you are a suitable candidate.
What to Expect During and After LANAP
LANAP is usually performed in two sessions, each focusing on one half of the mouth. The procedure typically takes about two hours per session.
After the treatment, you may experience minor discomfort and swelling, but recovery is generally much quicker compared to traditional gum surgery. Your periodontist will provide post-care instructions to ensure optimal healing, including dietary recommendations and follow-up visits to monitor progress.
Is LANAP Safe?
Yes, LANAP is a FDA-approved treatment that has been widely studied and proven to be safe and effective for treating gum disease. The laser used in LANAP has a long track record of success and safety in dental treatments.
Final Thoughts
LANAP is a revolutionary treatment that offers a less invasive, quicker recovery option for those suffering from gum disease. If you’re concerned about traditional gum surgery or want to explore more modern treatments, LANAP might be the perfect option for you.
To find out if LANAP is right for you, schedule a consultation with our clinic today. Our team of specialists is experienced in this advanced laser treatment and can help you make the best choice for your oral health.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Contact our periodontics clinic to learn more about LANAP and how it can improve your gum health!
