Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure, or LANAP, is an innovative procedure for the treatment of periodontitis–a gum disease. It is a non-invasive method designed to treat and mitigate the harmful effects of gum disease. LANAP uses laser pulse variations to remove diseased tissue and stimulate the regrowth of both the gums and the bones while encouraging gum reattachment. Additionally, these lasers only target compromised tissue, and ensure the preservation of any remaining healthy tissue.
Although it was developed in 1994 by Robert H Gregg and Delwin McCarthy, this procedure has recently gained popularity and recognition amongst dentists for its ability to regenerate gums, after being evaluated by the FDA in 2016. It is the only periodontitis treatment available that not only treats diseased tissue but creates a stable environment that fosters continued healing of gums and bone tissue.
What is LANAP?
LANAP is an exciting new procedure for the treatment of periodontitis. It is a non-surgical method designed to treat and mitigate the harmful effects of gum disease. Whether your gum disease was caused by bad dental habits, dry mouth, or unlucky genetics, LANAP can restore and regenerate your gums. LANAP uses laser pulse variations to remove diseased tissue and stimulate regrowth of both the gums and the bones while encouraging gum reattachment. Additionally, these lasers only target compromised tissue and ensure the preservation of any remaining healthy tissue. If you have gum loss, LANAP may be the non-invasive treatment you seek.
What is Periodontitis?
Periodontitis sounds like something you’d discover deep down a WebMD rabbit hole, but in layman’s terms, it is simple–gum disease. Gum disease is a common ailment among adults, but many don’t recognize the insidious effects of this seemingly trivial disease. Gum disease is correlated with a number of severe health problems and left untreated can wreak havoc on your overall health. Scientific evidence supports relationships between gum disease and decreased cognitive function and increased risk of heart disease, cancer, chronic inflammation, and diabetes.
Signs of gum disease typically include:
- Pain with chewing
- Receding gum lines
- Loose teeth
- Bleeding gums
- Bad breath
In most instances, prioritizing dental hygiene and routine dental care will keep one from developing advanced periodontitis. Some patients have irreparable damage to their gums that must be remedied by gum surgery. Luckily, there are numerous treatment options available, and our dental professionals at Greenspoint Dental can help you navigate the tricky waters of making a decision.
How Much Does LANAP Cost?
Because LANAP is such an innovative procedure, many patients assume it comes with a hefty price tag, however, LANAP costs roughly the same as traditional gum surgery. Depending on your orthodontist and location, it typically costs between $1,500-$3,500. At Greenspoint Dental, we recognize the significance of this investment and offer personalized payment plans for our patients.
What to Expect During the LANAP Procedure
If you are ready to take charge of your gum health and think LANAP may be an option for you, it’s important to prepare yourself for what to expect during the actual process. You will initially have to schedule a consultation with your dentist. Your dentist can answer any questions you may have about the procedure. Once you’ve selected LANAP, the process can typically be completed with two in-office sessions.
Your dentist will begin by measuring the pocket depths of each of your periodontal sockets to gauge how much gum loss has occurred. They will then place the laser pulse variations between your gums and teeth to remove any diseased tissue in each pocket. This laser selectively removes only diseased tissue leaving healthy tissue intact.
Your dentist will then remove any plaque and tartar build-up with a dental scaler. This is a vital step of the LANAP process because it ensures the teeth are clean and won’t stimulate further bacteria growth. Once the teeth are clean, your dentist will once again utilize the laser, this time in the depths of your periodontal pockets. This will sterilize the teeth, soft tissue, and bone and create a seal around the tooth to prevent any further bacteria from permeating the area. This seal allows for faster healing and fosters a stable environment for gum regeneration.
Each session is generally completed in around an hour or two. Your dentist will typically split the procedure into two sessions, each session involving the treatment of one half of the mouth. This allows ample time for each side of the mouth to heal without impeding the patient’s ability to eat or drink.
Recovery
The healing process for LANAP surgery is much faster than traditional gum surgery recovery. However, there are a few recommended aftercare steps to ensure the preservation of your results.
- Do not floss for a month
- Do not brush your teeth for 7-10 days
- Follow a soft, healthy diet
- Do not smoke
By following these simple precautions and taking ibuprofen as needed for pain, you’ll be healed and ready to show off your healthy new smile in no time! Additionally, your dentist will provide you with a comprehensive guide on specific aftercare techniques after your procedure to clear up any confusion or anxiety.
It is important to plan to visit your dentist for regular teeth cleanings and checkups following your procedure. LANAP will not ensure that your gums remain healthy without the implementation of a thorough and deliberate dental routine.
Schedule Your Appointment
If you are having issues with periodontitis or significant gum loss our dental experts at Greenspoint are here to help. From the consultation to the actual lanap procedure, we are here to help you better understand and diagnose your dental needs.
We are excited to offer the most cutting-edge gum and bone regeneration technique yet! With laser-assisted new attachment procedure or LANAP, you can get the smile of your dreams, painlessly. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and get any and all of your questions answered!
