If you’re beginning to notice receding, swollen, or bleeding gums, it could be a sign of gum disease, also known as periodontitis. When it comes to diagnosing and treating gum disease, time is of the essence. The longer gum disease persists, the more likely you are to develop complications that have long-term impacts. Gum disease is not only linked to high rates of tooth loss, but many who suffer from severe periodontitis for a long period of time go on to experience heart disease, respiratory issues, and potentially even cognitive problems.
However, with today’s treatments, there is no need to delay care. Treating gum disease has never been easier, and there are many ways to do it without the need for invasive surgery. Laser Periodontal Treatment is a popular alternative to traditional flap surgery. If you’re nervous about traditional treatment, here are three reasons why LANAP might be the right choice for you.
1. Laser Periodontal Treatment Is Minimally Invasive
Periodontitis leads to significant plaque and tartar build-up on the surface and underneath the pockets of your gum tissue. Therefore, many traditional treatments require incision and sutures to eliminate the harmful bacteria. However, LANAP does not. Laser periodontal treatment is minimally invasive. The procedure leverages a high-powered laser to target and eliminate infected tissue (which is darker in color). No incisions are required, and the laser is able to leave healthy tissue intact. Not only is the treatment minimally invasive, but it also has a shorter recovery time. Patients can expect to recover in a couple of days to a week, whereas traditional treatments can take several weeks to a month.
2. Laser Periodontal Treatment Can Regenerate Healthy Gum Tissue
LANAP doesn’t just eliminate infection, but it also leads to blood clot formation and sealing, which protects the gums from reinfection and encourages tissue reattachment. LANAP promotes tissue regeneration in a few different ways. First, it leaves healthy tissue in place, which serves as the foundation for regrowth. LANAP also activates the growth of healthy cells and reduces inflammation, both of which help to create a healthy environment where gums can regenerate.
3. Laser Periodontal Treatment Limits The Risk Of Gum Recession
Because gum disease causes the gums to pull away from the teeth, gum recession is a common symptom. As gum tissue wears away from the teeth, it increases the risk of tooth loss. Traditional gum surgery can worsen the problem because it involves cutting away the diseased tissue. On the other hand, LANAP doesn’t require tissue removal, so patients are less likely to experience receding gums. This means LANAP can help reduce the risk of tooth loss.
While these are three major benefits of LANAP, it’s not an exhaustive list. LANAP is also a great option for patients who suffer from a fear of dental procedures, and the overwhelming majority of patients qualify for treatment. It’s also highly affordable and very effective.
What Can I Expect During LANAP?
LANAP is usually done in one or two sessions, depending on the severity of the disease. First, the laser will be applied to the infected tissue, and ultrasonic scalers will be used to remove tartar from the root surfaces. Your provider will then take a second pass with the laser, which will help to promote blood clotting. After the procedure, you may experience some mild discomfort for a couple of days; however, you should be able to return to normal activities within 24 hours, though you may need to stick to a soft foods diet for a short period of time. Keep in mind, healthy gum tissue won’t regenerate immediately; it may take several weeks or months to fully restore your gums.
Why Ormond Beach Perio Is A Top Choice For Laser Periodontal Treatment
If you’re a Central Florida resident suffering from gum disease and looking for a less-painful, less-invasive way to treat it, Dr. Beauchamp at Ormond Beach Periodontics has leveraged LANAP to treat moderate to severe gum disease countless times. As one of the area’s most experienced periodontists, we’re well equipped to help patients tackle their gum disease head-on. From our comfortable office environment to our continuous investment in cutting-edge dental technology, it’s no surprise that Ormond Beach Perio has become a top choice for LANAP.
If you’re interested in learning more about LANAP, schedule a consultation with Dr. Beauchamp today.