Laser Periodontal Therapy (LANAP)

Laser Periodontal Therapy

Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure (LANAP)

Regular professional cleanings and excellent home care can help reverse the effects of gingivitis. If your gum disease progresses to periodontitis resulting in the loss of bone supporting your teeth, a surgical intervention is often necessary to eliminate the deep gum pockets that develop between the teeth and gums. If these pockets persist over time, they would allow the bacteria within your gums to colonize further, thereby increasing your risk of tooth loss.

Traditional gum surgery involves cutting away gum tissues and reshaping the bone underneath. In some cases, this procedure is the preferred and recommended option. For others, a less invasive technique may be recommended which uses a specialized laser to destroy the bacteria causing gum disease, and alter the tissues to promote healing. This procedure is called Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure (LANAP). It preserves more tissues than traditional scalpel surgery, and may result in a faster and less painful recovery.

The procedure involves inserting a tiny laser fiber between the tooth and gum to treat the infection. It normally takes two sessions by treating one half of your mouth at each session. In many cases, you will feel good enough to return to work soon afterwards.