LANAP (laser-assisted new attachment procedure) can help ease symptoms of periodontal disease without invasive surgery. Unlike traditional periodontal surgery, LANAP treatment is non-invasive, more effective, and more comfortable for patients.
If you’re suffering from symptoms such as bleeding gums or loose teeth, contact our dental office in Woodland Hills by calling 818-491-7294 to schedule your appointment. We’ll evaluate your oral health and discuss the options we offer for periodontal treatment at our dental office. If your case of gum disease is too far advanced, we may refer you out.
Don't let gum disease progress. Contact our Woodland Hills dentist for an appointment.
LANAP is a revolutionary laser treatment for gum disease that offers a minimally invasive alternative to traditional gum surgery. LANAP uses a specialized laser to target and remove diseased tissue while preserving healthy gum tissue. The primary purpose of LANAP is to remove diseased gum tissue and promote the regeneration of healthy tissues, offering a more comfortable alternative to traditional gum surgery. This innovative treatment is particularly effective for moderate to severe cases of periodontal disease, making it a valuable option for many patients.
The success of LANAP laser treatment lies in its well-structured and systematic approach. The process includes:
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Each session of LANAP typically lasts between 2 and 3 hours, providing thorough and precise treatment.
LANAP utilizes the PerioLase MVP-7 1064 Nd:YAG dental laser, a sophisticated piece of technology specifically designed for laser periodontal therapy. This laser operates in a free-running pulsed mode and features seven variable pulse durations, allowing it to target and remove infected gum tissue while preserving the healthy tissue around it. The precision of this laser is one of the key factors that make LANAP a minimally invasive laser treatment. It penetrates up to 4 mm beyond the tissue surface, effectively eradicating bacteria and promoting bone and gum tissue regeneration.
Our Woodland Hills dentist offers various treatments to help you get the care you need.
One major advantage of LANAP is the considerable reduction in pain and discomfort during and after the procedure. Unlike traditional gum surgery, which often involves significant cutting and stitching, LANAP offers the following benefits:
Uses a laser that emits a mild, warm sensation
Seals nerve endings, minimizing temporary discomfort
Patients undergoing LANAP typically report minimal pain and discomfort, both during the procedure and throughout the healing process.
The minimal invasiveness characteristic of LANAP enables a substantially shortened recovery period relative to traditional gum surgery. Most patients can resume their daily activities immediately or within 24 to 48 hours after the LANAP procedure. This is a stark contrast to the extended recovery times often associated with conventional surgical procedures, which can require several days or even weeks of downtime.
The laser used in LANAP not only treats the diseased tissue but also promotes faster healing, allowing patients to:
Get back to their normal routines with minimal disruption
Experience less pain and discomfort
Have a reduced risk of infection
Enjoy a quicker healing process
By preserving healthy tissue, LANAP can:
Treat existing periodontal disease
Support the regeneration of bone and gum tissue
Minimize the need for more invasive procedures, such as soft tissue grafts
Help maintain the natural structure and function of the gums
Provide a more natural and sustainable improvement in gum health, which is essential for overall dental wellness.
While LANAP is generally safe, potential risks and considerations include:
Sensitivity: Some patients may experience temporary tooth sensitivity.
Infection: Though rare, there is a small risk of infection.
Cost: LANAP can be more expensive than traditional treatments.
As with any medical procedure, LANAP carries potential side effects, typically milder than those associated with traditional surgery. Common side effects include:
Light bleeding
Slight swelling
Soreness
Tenderness
Tooth sensitivity
These symptoms are usually temporary and can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications and proper post-operative care.
Invasiveness: LANAP is less invasive, involving no cutting or stitching.
Pain and Discomfort: Patients typically experience less pain with LANAP.
Recovery Time: LANAP offers a faster recovery period.
Tissue Preservation: LANAP targets only diseased tissue, preserving more healthy gum tissue.
Outcome: LANAP promotes natural tissue regeneration, which is not a feature of traditional surgery.
The process of determining LANAP candidacy involves an evaluation of the stage and severity of your gum disease. Ideal candidates for LANAP include patients who:
Are in the early to middle stages of gum disease
Have periodontal pockets up to 6mm deep
Have swollen and bleeding gums
Have loosening teeth
Have ongoing periodontal disease despite regular deep cleanings
LANAP is particularly suitable for patients with moderate to severe gum disease, as it effectively treats even advanced cases. The laser therapy can penetrate deep below the gum line, reaching and regenerating bone loss up to 6mm deep. This makes LANAP a viable option for many patients who might otherwise require more invasive treatments.
However, LANAP may not be suitable for those with extremely advanced gum disease or those with significant gum damage beyond 6mm. In these cases, more aggressive surgical grafting may be required before considering LANAP. Alternative treatments, such as traditional flap surgery or scaling and root planing, may be more appropriate for these patients.
Proper post-treatment care in LANAP is vital for a seamless healing process and optimal outcomes. Patients can expect:
Mild postoperative sensitivity and soreness, which typically lasts a few days
Discomfort can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication. Always follow the recommended dosage and instructions on the packaging
Following a liquid diet for the first three days post-treatment, gradually transitioning to soft foods over the next few days
Patients should follow these post-treatment instructions:
Avoid brushing and flossing the treated areas for 10 to 14 days to allow the gums to heal properly.
Reduce physical activity to minimize swelling and aid the healing process.
Apply ice packs to the affected areas as needed.
LANAP differs from traditional gum surgery by using a laser to remove diseased tissue without harming healthy tissue, resulting in less pain and faster recovery. This makes it a less invasive and more efficient option for treating gum disease.
LANAP is effective for moderate to severe gum disease. Early stages may not require such an extensive treatment.
If you’re struggling with gum disease and you’re looking for treatment, contact our dental office today to schedule a consultation. Our experienced team is here to provide you with the best care and help you achieve optimal oral health.
Contact our dental office in Woodland Hills today by calling 818-491-7294.
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