LANAP: A Modern Approach to Treating Gum Disease
If you’re struggling with gum disease, you’re not alone. At Tuckerton Dental, our dentist in Tuckerton, NJ, Dr. Ronald Petrosky offers LANAP (Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure) to provide a comfortable, efficient solution. This innovative laser treatment targets infected tissue without cutting or stitches, promoting quicker healing and preserving healthy gums.
Whether you’re in Tuckerton, Little Egg Harbor, Mystic Island, Barnegat, Manahawkin, Beach Haven, or Stafford Township, LANAP could be the answer you’ve been looking for to restore your oral health. Contact Tuckerton Dental today by calling (609) 296-1007 to learn more.
What Is LANAP?
What Is LANAP?LANAP is a 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.
Most patients suffering from gum disease can benefit from the LANAP protocol, making it an appealing option for those looking for a less invasive and more effective alternative to traditional periodontal surgery when treating gum disease.
How LANAP Works
The success of LANAP treatment lies in its well-structured and systematic approach. The process includes:
- Measuring the depth of periodontal pockets using a probe to assess the attachment loss, ensuring that the treatment is tailored to the specific needs of each patient.
- Using the laser to remove infected gum tissue and kill bacteria.
- Removing calculus and tartar from the root surface.
- Stimulating the bone and gum tissue to promote regeneration.
- Sealing the treated area to promote healing.
Typically, each session of LANAP lasts between 2 to 3 hours, providing thorough and precise treatment.
The Laser Technology
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.
The PerioLase MVP-7 laser offers the following benefits:
- Eradicates harmful bacteria
- Catalyzes the regeneration of healthy gum tissue
- Creates a closed, sealed system to aid in the healing process and minimize the risk of further infection
- Uses laser energy effectively to achieve true regeneration of periodontal tissue.
Benefits of LANAP
Less Pain and Discomfort
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.
Faster Recovery Time
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
Preservation of Healthy Tissue
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.
Possible Risks Associated with the LANAP Procedure
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.
Possible Side Effects
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.
Comparing LANAP to Traditional Gum Surgery
- 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.
Who Is a Candidate for LANAP?
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
Suitability for Advanced Gum Disease
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.
Post-Treatment Care
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
LANAP (Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure) is generally considered less painful than traditional gum surgery. The use of a dental laser in LANAP reduces the need for cutting and sutures, leading to reduced post-operative discomfort. Moreover, local anesthesia is administered during the procedure to ensure patient comfort.
The duration of the LANAP (Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure) can vary depending on the extent of gum disease and the number of teeth being treated. In most cases, LANAP is performed in one or more sessions, and each session may take approximately two to three hours.
LANAP (Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure) can be an effective treatment for various stages of gum disease, including mild to moderate cases. In some instances, it may also be used as a part of the treatment plan for severe gum disease, also known as advanced periodontitis. However, the effectiveness of LANAP in severe cases may depend on several factors, such as the extent of gum and bone loss, the overall oral health of the patient, and their response to the treatment.
Whether LANAP (Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure) is covered by dental insurance can vary depending on the specific insurance plan. Some dental insurance providers may cover a portion of the cost for LANAP treatment, while others may not provide coverage at all.
Restore Your Gum Health with LANAP
Dr.Petrosky and our team at Tuckerton Dental are committed to offering the most advanced care for gum disease. LANAP is a game-changer, allowing patients to experience faster recovery times and less discomfort compared to traditional gum surgery. W
Whether you’re in Tuckerton, Little Egg Harbor, Mystic Island, Barnegat, or the surrounding areas, LANAP can help you regain healthy gums and protect your overall oral health. Don’t wait for your gum disease to worsen—schedule your consultation with Dr. Petrosky today by calling (609) 296-1007 to take the first step toward a healthier, brighter smile!