Enhance your gum health with
LANAP Laser Therapy
Eighty percent of adults have some form of gum disease, and most don’t even know it. Many patients diagnosed with moderate to severe gum disease often face an invasive procedure, but an alternative option will change all of this! There is another solution that is more comfortable than traditional gum surgery, costs less than dental implants, and can save your natural teeth.
Laser Periodontal Therapy uses a laser instead of traditional and often painful surgery to treat the problem. This means no incisions or stitches! Our office is one of the first in the area to offer treatment with the Periolase Laser to perform an FDA approved procedure that can actually reverse the harmful effects of gum disease and preserve your natural teeth.
New Technology – New Comfort
Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure (LANAP) offers precise treatment for bacterial infections in
the gums with a less invasive procedure when compared to traditional gum surgery. The LANAP can be
preformed on a wide range of patients, including those with conditions that may complicate the healing
process, such as diabetes and hemophilia, as well as people who have dental implants. Overall, the
technology offers a faster and more comfortable treatment process and is designed to target infected
gums without harming the surrounding tissue.
In addition to delivering a positive user experience for patients, the Periolase dental laser is backed by a
depth of scientific research. A peer-reviewed study published in The International Journal of
Periodontics & Restorative Dentistry demonstrates positive, consistent results in the treatment of
moderate to severe gum disease. New, connective tissue attachment and new coating were achieved in
100 percent of the cases studied.
The dramatic increase of comfort for our patients made this system attractive to our office. We
encourage patients to address the need now to reduce further damage to their gums, teeth, and bone.
If left untreated, research shows a strong association between periodontal disease and other chronic
inflammatory conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease (heart disease), Alzheimer’s, stroke,
respiratory issues, osteoporosis, and pregnancy problems.
Periolase Laser Frequently Asked Questions:
How does it work?
Tartar, associated with inflamed and bleeding gums, is removed from the root surface of the tooth using
an ultrasonic scaler and/or small dental instruments. Then, a small amount of light energy from a laser is
directed through a tiny fiber, which is gently paced between the gum and the tooth. This light energy
removes a tiny amount of diseased tissue and aids in reducing the bacteria associated with the disease.
After the area is thoroughly cleaned, the body can heal the area naturally.
Does it hurt?
Although the procedure itself can be virtually painless, we may anesthetize the area for the patient’s
comfort. This way, we can precisely direct the laser for treatment. Post-procedure discomfort is
typically minimal and of short duration.
How long does it take?
Initial treatment is focused on scaling and the use of small instruments to remove the tartar. Then, the
laser portion of the treatment is performed and normally only takes a few minutes. Depending on the
severity of the patient’s periodontal disease, treatment may be accomplished in one office visit or in
multiple visits. The estimated treatment time is reviewed with the patient when we discuss the
treatment plan.
Does this treatment cost more than traditional gum surgery?
Typically, laser treatment is generally no more expensive than traditional surgery. There are other
factors which may affect the cost, such as severity of the periodontal disease, and how many teeth are
involved. Many insurance plans pay for only a portion of this treatment.
Ask about it at your next appointment or schedule a consultation with one of our certified doctors. Still
have more questions or want to view a video animation of the procedure? Check out our LANAP Blog
Post.