What Is LANAP® Treatment?
Louisville, KY
 Most cases of gum disease go untreated. Despite the dramatic negative health risks that are linked to gum disease, people who have it often go undiagnosed. It is linked to premature birth, heart disease, stroke and diabetes, so it is most definitely a condition that should be taken seriously and treated immediately. Until recently the only options available for the treatment of gum disease have been invasive and potentially painful. Fortunately, we here at United Smile Centres have made LANAP® (laser-assisted new attachment procedure) available to our clients!
LANAP® has made it much easier for patients with gum disease to get the treatment they need. It is a minimally-invasive procedure that works using laser light to kill bacteria in the pockets of the gums, leaving only healthy tissue intact. LANAP® has been approved by the FDA and has been researched thoroughly. We are very pleased with the results that this provides our patients and hold it in high regard for the treatment of gum disease.
LANAP® Procedure
Traditional gum disease treatment methods involve cutting or amputation of the gums. While these methods are generally effective, they are extremely invasive and often require a long recovery time. LANAP® uses a laser light in the deep pockets between the gum and tooth to remove and prevent the bacteria that causes periodontitis. The gums are left completely intact and are compressed against the tooth.
Laser-assisted new attachment procedure (LANAP) is a dental treatment for gum disease known for being minimally invasive. It uses a specialized laser to remove diseased tissue and bacteria without harming healthy tissue. At United Smile Centres, we have embraced this latest technology due to benefits such as promoting natural healing and regeneration. This procedure reduces discomfort, minimizes gum recession, and speeds recovery time for our patients.
Benefits of LANAP
LANAP offers several benefits that make it stand out among other dental treatments. First, it is minimally invasive, reduces pain and discomfort, and preserves healthy gum tissue. This treatment minimizes gum recession and promotes faster healing. Additionally, it lowers the risk of infection and enhances bone regeneration. Many patients prefer this treatment because it requires fewer follow-up visits than traditional gum surgery.
LANAP Procedure
The LANAP procedure begins with local anesthesia to ensure patient comfort. A specialized laser is then used to target and remove infected gum tissue while preserving healthy tissue. The laser sterilizes the area, killing bacteria and promoting clot formation, which seals the gum pocket and encourages healing. The procedure stimulates the regeneration of bone and connective tissue, reducing pocket depth and improving gum health. Patients experience minimal discomfort and a quicker recovery than traditional gum surgery.
Candidacy for LANAP
A good candidate for LANAP is someone with moderate to severe gum disease who seeks a minimally invasive treatment option. Ideal candidates have gum pockets that are not responding well to traditional treatments, prefer quicker recovery times, and aim to preserve as much healthy tissue as possible. With that said, LANAP is not for all. Those who suffer from conditions that impair healing, such as uncontrolled diabetes or immune disorders, are not good candidates. Your dentist may have to do more monitoring before you undergo the procedure. Pregnant women are also advised against elective dental procedures. Patients with very shallow gum pockets or insufficient remaining bone structure might also not benefit from LANAP.
LANAP Recovery
LANAP recovery is usually faster than traditional gum surgery. Most patients resume normal activities within 24 hours. The healing process involves minimal discomfort and swelling. Patients should follow a soft diet for a few days and maintain gentle oral hygiene practices. Regular follow-up visits are not essential. Even so, you may be required to return to the dentist for monitoring and to ensure the procedure was successful. Complete tissue regeneration and stabilization may take several months. However, patients generally experience significant improvement within the first few weeks.
LANAP vs. Traditional Surgery
Traditionally, those who suffer from gum disease had to undergo regular surgery, which is still performed in many places today. Even so, LANAP has been a revolutionary treatment that is miles ahead of regular surgery. LANAP is less invasive than traditional gum surgery. This helps in reducing pain, swelling, and recovery time.
LANAP also preserves healthy tissue and promotes natural regeneration. On the contrary, traditional surgery involves cutting and suturing, leading to more discomfort and prolonged healing. LANAP also minimizes gum recession and lowers infection risk, making it a preferred choice for many patients.
If you have been diagnosed with gum disease or even suspect you could have developed it, we are here to help you. United Smile Centres has the latest tools that administer precision surgery for gum disease treatment. To book a session with us for surgery, please call us at (502) 899-3000. |
