What is LANAP® Laser Gum Disease Treatment?

 LANAP® (Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure) is an advanced, minimally invasive treatment for gum disease that utilizes a specialized laser to target and treat infected gum tissue. It offers an alternative to traditional gum surgery and provides many benefits, including faster recovery times, reduced pain, and more precise results. LANAP® is particularly effective for patients who have moderate to severe gum disease and those who want to avoid the discomfort and long recovery associated with conventional surgical methods.

The process begins with the use of a laser that is designed to remove bacteria, diseased tissue, and plaque from the gum pockets. This laser is highly precise, allowing it to selectively target infected tissue while leaving healthy tissue unharmed. The procedure is able to reach deep into the gum pockets, which are areas where bacteria can hide, making it effective for treating advanced gum disease. One of the primary goals of LANAP® is to stop gum disease in its tracks and to promote healing and regeneration in the affected tissues.

During the treatment, the laser is used to clean the gum pockets thoroughly. The light energy from the laser effectively kills harmful bacteria and removes the infected tissue without the need for incisions or sutures. This allows the healthy gum tissue to remain intact and encourages the regeneration of bone and soft tissue around the affected area. The process not only treats the current infection but also stimulates the body’s natural healing mechanisms, encouraging new tissue to form and the gum tissue to reattach to the tooth structure.

One of the key advantages of LANAP® over traditional gum surgery is the reduced discomfort and shorter recovery time. Traditional gum surgery involves cutting and stitching the gum tissue, which can result in significant pain, swelling, and a prolonged healing process. LANAP® eliminates the need for cutting and suturing, which leads to less bleeding, less post-operative discomfort, and a faster recovery time. Many patients report minimal pain and a quick return to their normal activities after the procedure.

Another major benefit of LANAP® is that it is performed with a high level of precision. The laser can target infected areas deep within the gum pockets without damaging healthy tissue, which helps preserve the integrity of the gums and surrounding bone. This level of precision ensures that the treatment is both effective and gentle, allowing for better overall results. In fact, studies have shown that LANAP® can be as effective as traditional gum surgery in treating moderate to severe gum disease, with the added benefit of a more comfortable and faster recovery.

LANAP® is typically performed under local anesthesia, ensuring that the patient is comfortable and pain-free during the procedure. The procedure itself is generally completed in one or two visits, depending on the extent of the gum disease and the number of areas that need to be treated. The treatment usually takes between two and four hours to complete, depending on the severity of the infection. Following the procedure, patients are given detailed aftercare instructions to ensure proper healing and to minimize the risk of complications.

The benefits of LANAP® are not just limited to its ability to treat gum disease effectively. The procedure also promotes the regeneration of bone and soft tissue in the affected areas. This is particularly important for patients who have experienced bone loss due to gum disease. By stimulating the body’s natural healing processes, LANAP® can help restore lost bone and tissue, which in turn helps to re-stabilize the teeth and prevent further deterioration. This regenerative aspect of LANAP® sets it apart from other treatments for gum disease, as it helps to address both the infection and the damage caused by the disease.

Another important aspect of LANAP® is its ability to help improve overall oral health. Gum disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss, and treating it effectively can significantly reduce the risk of further complications, such as tooth mobility, gum recession, and bone loss. By addressing the underlying infection and promoting healing, LANAP® helps to preserve the health of the gums, teeth, and supporting bone structures, which ultimately leads to better long-term oral health.

In addition to its effectiveness in treating gum disease, LANAP® is also beneficial for patients who are concerned about the appearance of their gums. Gum disease can cause the gums to recede and become uneven, leading to an aesthetically unpleasing smile. LANAP® helps to restore the health of the gums, promoting a more even and natural appearance. As the gum tissue heals and regenerates, it becomes firmer and more resilient, leading to an overall improvement in the appearance of the gums and teeth.

Patients who undergo LANAP® treatment typically experience a much quicker recovery compared to traditional gum surgery.