The last thing a patient suffering from gum disease wants is more discomfort. Traditional treatments for severe periodontitis sometimes require invasive procedures, which can make patients feel anxious. As a result, many avoid seeking treatment for gum disease altogether, hoping the issue will resolve itself with better oral hygiene over time.
Unfortunately, when gum disease progresses to a later stage, it can become irreversible without treatment. In worst-case scenarios, it can even damage your gums, teeth, and jaw. When the disease reaches this point, treatment will be necessary to resolve the issue and restore your oral health. However, patients will be happy to know that invasive surgery isn’t the only option.
LANAP is a quick and easy procedure that can treat mild, moderate, and severe cases of gum disease, usually without the need for invasive surgery. This innovative procedure has become increasingly popular and for good reason.
What Is LANAP?
Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure (LANAP), also known as laser periodontal treatment, helps eliminate gum disease, sterilize the remaining tissue, and promote gum regeneration. The procedure utilizes an ultra-thin, high-powered laser to target diseased gums.
Prior to the procedure, patients often receive both antibiotics and local anesthesia to minimize any discomfort. Then, a licensed periodontist will navigate the laser along the patient’s gums eliminating bacteria and pathogens. The laser itself is naturally attracted to darker colors, so it is able to target the diseased gums with a high degree of accuracy. There is no need for incisions or scalpels; however, your periodontist will use an ultra-sonic scaler to scrape off any remaining plaque and smooth over the healthy gums. The remaining gums will heal quickly and over time, they will naturally regenerate new healthy tissue helping restore the patient’s oral health.
LANAP uses a patented, FDA-approved laser. The procedure was first performed in 1994 and has since become one of the most popular and effective dental treatments.
Benefits of LANAP
Considering the many benefits, it’s easy to see why laser periodontal treatment has become so popular and is often the preferred treatment for gum disease. Here are a few of the advantages:
- It’s Less Painful Than Surgery – LANAP is minimally invasive. This procedure doesn’t involve incisions, so it’s significantly less painful than traditional surgery. Patients won’t experience any swelling or bleeding.
- The Recovery Is Quick – Because it’s not a significant surgery, the recovery is quick and downtime is minimal. Most patients will feel better and can resume normal activity within 24 hours. On the other hand, gum surgery recovery takes 2 to 4 weeks.
- It’s Effective – LANAP is highly effective at eliminating diseased tissue and promoting regeneration. Since there is no incision, the chances of complications are minimal. And because the laser sterilizes the remaining gum tissue, quick reinfection is highly unlikely.
- It Promotes Tissue And Bone Growth
LANAP doesn’t just eliminate diseased tissue, it naturally promotes gum regeneration and stimulates jawbone growth, both of which are essential to the long-term oral health of the patient. - It’s Affordable – LANAP is often around the same cost as traditional gum surgery and in many cases, it’s covered by insurance.
- It Can Help Save Teeth
LANAP not only promotes tissue regeneration but also encourages tissue reattachment to the tooth. As a result, it’s possible that in some cases LANAP can prevent extraction. - It’s Safe
Most patients are eligible for LANAP, including many with diabetes, bleeding disorders, and those on certain medications. However, some exceptions may apply, so you should review your medical history with your periodontist.
Disadvantages Of LANAP
Because it’s safe and effective, there are actually very few disadvantages of LANAP over traditional surgery. Here are two:
- Not All Periodontists Offer It – In order to perform LANAP, periodontists need special training and certification. As a result, not every periodontist offers the procedure.
- It May Not Be The Right Treatment For The Most Severe Cases – LANAP is effective at treating all stages of gum disease; however, it may not be able to resolve some of the more severe cases of periodontitis on its own. If this is the case, traditional surgery may be required.
If you’re suffering from gum disease and want to avoid traditional gum surgery, ask your periodontist about laser periodontal treatment today. With few downsides and minimal risk, this procedure can get you feeling back to normal again in no time.
Looking for a Central Florida periodontist certified in LANAP? Contact us today at Ormond Beach Periodontics to schedule your consultation.