Are you struggling with gum disease and worried about invasive surgical procedures? The LANAP (Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure) protocol might be the solution you've been looking for. This FDA-cleared laser treatment is transforming the way we treat periodontal disease, offering a less invasive and more effective alternative to traditional gum surgery.
What is LANAP?
LANAP is a groundbreaking laser periodontal therapy that uses the PerioLase® MVP-7™ laser to target and eliminate diseased gum tissue while preserving healthy tissue. This highly precise laser treatment represents a significant advancement in periodontal care, offering patients a more comfortable experience with faster healing times.
How Does LANAP Work?
The LANAP procedure follows a sophisticated protocol:
- Initial Assessment
- Your dentist measures pocket depths around your teeth using a periodontal probe
- X-rays are taken to evaluate bone loss
- A comprehensive treatment plan is developed
- The LANAP Procedure
- Step 1: The laser fiber (about the thickness of three human hairs) is inserted between the tooth and gum
- Step 2: Diseased tissue is selectively removed while healthy tissue remains untouched
- Step 3: Ultrasonic scalers remove tartar from root surfaces
- Step 4: The laser is used again at a different setting to create a stable blood clot
- Step 5: Bite trauma is adjusted to ensure proper healing
Benefits of LANAP Over Traditional Surgery
- Minimally Invasive
- No cutting or suturing of gum tissue
- Significantly less post-operative pain
- Minimal gum recession
- Less sensitivity during and after treatment
- Faster Recovery
- Return to normal activities within 24 hours
- Less bleeding and swelling
- Reduced risk of infection
- Faster healing time compared to traditional surgery
- Better Results
- Promotes regeneration of bone tissue
- Preserves more healthy gum tissue
- Long-lasting results
- Higher patient satisfaction rates
- More Comfortable
- Less anxiety-inducing than traditional surgery
- Minimal discomfort during and after procedure
- Usually requires less medication post-treatment
Who is a Candidate for LANAP?
LANAP is suitable for most patients with moderate to severe gum disease, including those who:
- Have been told they need gum surgery
- Are fearful of traditional scalpel surgery
- Take blood thinners
- Have health conditions like diabetes or heart disease
- Are smokers
- Have had previous gum surgery
The Treatment Process
Before Treatment:
- Comprehensive examination
- Review of medical history
- Discussion of expectations and outcomes
- Treatment planning
During Treatment:
- Local anesthetic administration
- Typically 2-3 hours per session
- Usually completed in two visits
- Minimal discomfort
After Treatment:
- Resume normal activities within 24 hours
- Follow specific dietary guidelines for a few days
- Maintain good oral hygiene
- Regular follow-up appointments
Long-Term Success
The success of LANAP depends on:
- Following post-treatment care instructions
- Maintaining excellent oral hygiene
- Regular dental check-ups
- Lifestyle modifications (if necessary)
Cost and Insurance
While LANAP may have a higher initial cost than traditional surgery, many patients find it more cost-effective in the long run due to:
- Fewer follow-up visits
- Less time off work
- Reduced need for pain medication
- Lower risk of complications
Most dental insurance plans provide some coverage for LANAP, and many dental offices offer financing options.
Why Choose LANAP at Our Practice?
Our dental team is specially trained and certified in the LANAP protocol. We use the latest PerioLase® MVP-7™ technology and follow strict protocols to ensure optimal results. Our experience with LANAP has shown:
- 98% patient satisfaction rate
- Significant reduction in pocket depths
- Improved gum health in over 95% of cases
- Minimal post-operative complications
Take the Next Step
Don't let gum disease compromise your oral health. LANAP offers a modern, comfortable solution to traditional periodontal surgery. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn if LANAP is right for you.
Remember: Early intervention is key to successful treatment of periodontal disease. The sooner you address gum problems, the better your chances of saving your natural teeth and maintaining optimal oral health.