This Revolutionary Treatment Is Now Available
Our practice is proud to offer the LANAP® protocol, a groundbreaking, minimally invasive laser treatment for gum disease. This patient-friendly procedure provides a comfortable and effective alternative to traditional surgery, helping you achieve a healthier mouth without the fear and discomfort often associated with gum disease treatment.
Understanding Gum Disease
Gum disease is an infection of the tissues supporting your teeth and affects over half of American adults. It begins with plaque, a film that accumulates on teeth and hardens into tartar or calculus. This buildup contains bacteria that damage gum tissue. Your body’s inflammatory response to this infection can cause the gums to bleed easily, a stage known as gingivitis.
If left untreated, the condition can progress to periodontitis, a chronic inflammatory state where the gums, ligaments, and bone supporting the teeth are destroyed, often without any noticeable symptoms.
Signs of moderate to advanced gum disease may include:
- Red, swollen, or easily bleeding gums
- Gums pulling away from the teeth
- Persistent bad breath
- Pus between teeth and gums
- Loose teeth or a change in your bite
Risk factors for gum disease include genetics, stress, and poor oral hygiene. Smoking significantly increases the risk of developing gum disease. Importantly, gum disease is not just a problem for your mouth; it has been linked to serious health issues like heart disease, stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, and certain cancers.
What is the LANAP® Protocol?
The LANAP protocol is the first and only laser gum disease treatment to be cleared by the FDA for “True Periodontal Regeneration.” This scientifically proven procedure regenerates the bone and tissues lost to gum disease. The protocol utilizes the specific PerioLase® MVP-7™ dental laser, which targets and eliminates disease-causing bacteria while leaving healthy tissue unharmed.
Benefits of the LANAP® protocol include:
- No Cutting and No Stitches: The procedure is significantly less invasive than traditional surgery.
- Less Discomfort: Patients typically report less pain, swelling, and bleeding during and after the procedure.
- Quicker Recovery: Most patients can return to their daily activities almost immediately.
- Saves Teeth: It can help save teeth that were previously considered hopeless.
- Regeneration: It promotes the regeneration of bone and other tissues destroyed by gum disease.
The LANAP® Treatment Procedure
The LANAP procedure is a comprehensive treatment that works to eliminate the infection and promote natural healing.
The steps of the procedure are as follows:
- A periodontal probe is used to identify the depth of the pockets between the teeth and gums.
- The PerioLase® MVP-7™ laser selectively vaporizes bacteria and diseased tissue.
- An ultrasonic scaler is used to remove tartar from the root surfaces of the teeth.
- The bone may be modified to encourage the release of stem cells.
- The laser is used again to finish cleaning the pocket, stimulate growth factors, and create a seal to prevent new germs from entering.
- The gums heal against the clean root surface.
- Your bite will be adjusted to reduce trauma to the teeth.
- Over time, the tissues and bone regenerate, leading to true healing.
What to Expect From Your LANAP® Treatment
The Surgery:
The LANAP procedure is typically completed in two, 2-hour visits. One side of the mouth is treated during the first visit, and the other side is completed in a second visit, usually within a week.
The First Few Days:
You may experience some mild soreness and discoloration of the gums for a few days, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication. You will need to adhere to a liquid or soft food diet for 7-10 days and avoid brushing or flossing during this initial healing period. It’s also important to note that smoking can negatively impact the results of the treatment.
Follow-Up Care:
As your gums heal, your bite will likely need several adjustments over the following months. To help stabilize the teeth, splints may be created for you to wear. Regular professional cleanings every three months for at least the first year will be essential to maintain your oral health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is a good candidate for the LANAP® protocol?
Patients with moderate to severe gum disease are excellent candidates. It is also a great option for those who are anxious about conventional surgery or are taking medications like blood thinners, as there is no need to stop taking these medications for the procedure.
Can the LANAP® protocol help with failing dental implants?
Yes. A similar procedure called the LAPIP™ protocol uses the same laser technology to treat failing implants by destroying bacteria and helping to stabilize the implant.
What is the cost of the LANAP® treatment?
The cost varies depending on the individual case. We will work with you to create a suitable financial arrangement.
