Lanap® Laser Dentistry
The laser gum disease treatment known as the LANAP protocol offers a less painful, more successful treatment alternative to conventional surgery. With LANAP treatment, a specially designed dental laser is utilized instead of a scalpel. Bacteria that causes gum disease is gently and effectively cleared away using laser light energy through a fiber the width of three human hairs.
LANAP is one of the most successful protocols in treating gum disease because it can target the source of the inflammation without hurting or removing any healthy gum tissue, slow or stop attachment loss and decrease pocket depth, and allowing the body to recover from the chronic infection without the need for scalpel or sutures.
The LANAP protocol is the only research-proven methodology that results in true periodontal regeneration, and the only laser gum disease treatment that has been FDA cleared. Simply put, the LANAP protocol can re-grow the tissues and bone lost to gum disease. Compared to traditional osseous surgery, patients say the LANAP protocol is:
- Less painful
- Less post-op sensitivity
- Less gum loss (gum recession)
- Very little downtime after treatment
LANAP treatment
LANAP treatment can only be administered by a certified LANAP provider. At Epic Dental, the experienced periodontal team will provide your treatment.
During LANAP treatment, the laser fiber is inserted between the gum and tooth, without cutting the gums. The laser light energy targets the source of the inflammation without hurting or removing any healthy gum tissue. This helps to slow or stop attachment loss and decrease pocket depth, and allowing the body to recover from the chronic infection without the need for scalpel or sutures. The gums are not cut to reduce pocket depth. The tops of your teeth (biting surface) are adjusted to keep from hitting your other teeth.
LANAP periodontal surgery is a full-mouth procedure usually completed in two, 2-hour visits. Splinting of loose teeth may occur during this visit if necessary. One side of the mouth is completed during the first visit, and a week later the other side is then completed at the second visit. It is very common for patients to quickly resume normal activities or return to work.
After treatment
LANAP is a surgical procedure, so your body will adjust depending upon your individual pain tolerance. The first few days following the surgery you may experience mild soreness of the treated areas- generally alleviated with Ibuprofen. The gum tissues around the teeth may appear slightly discolored. Splints may be fabricated to stabilize and immobilize the teeth. It is important that you wear these splints as instructed to promote healing. Expect to have your bite adjusted during visits several times over the coming months; this is very important for healing.
- Do not brush or floss for the first 7-10 days after treatment.
- Follow a soft diet as recommended by your treating dentist.
- Do not smoke. Smoking interferes with the healing process by impairing the body’s defense mechanisms.
Your individual cost will depend upon a number of variables. If you have questions about cost or financing, the Epic Dental team can help you.
To learn more about LANAP or to make an appointment, please contact us at our dental office today — proudly serving Norwood, Walpole, and surrounding areas.
