Gum disease is a common dental issue that affects many people. If left untreated, it can progress into a more severe condition called periodontitis, which can lead to tooth loss and other serious health problems. Fortunately, advancements in dental technology have made it easier to treat even the most severe gum disease. One of the most effective periodontal treatments for advanced gum disease is LANAP (Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure) therapy.
Dr. Craig Long and the team at Advanced Dental Associates offer this innovative procedure that helps patients with advanced gum disease restore their gum health without the need for traditional surgical methods.
What is LANAP Therapy?
LANAP therapy is a minimally invasive, FDA-approved laser treatment used to treat advanced gum disease. This procedure uses a specialized laser to target and remove infected tissue from the gums while leaving healthy tissue intact. The laser also helps to promote the regeneration of gum tissue, making it an ideal treatment for patients suffering from periodontitis or other forms of advanced gum disease.
The LANAP procedure is performed in our San Antonio dental office, often over the course of two visits. The procedure is generally well-tolerated by patients with a local anesthetic, and many report minimal discomfort compared to traditional gum surgery.
How Does LANAP Therapy Work?
During the LANAP procedure, Dr. Long will use a specialized laser to remove the infected tissue from around the gums. The laser works by selectively targeting harmful bacteria and diseased tissue without damaging healthy tissue. This allows the gums to heal more quickly and effectively.
After the infected tissue is removed, the laser is used to stimulate the gums, helping them regenerate and reattach to the tooth structure. The procedure also helps reduce pockets of infection between the gums and teeth, a common issue in advanced gum disease.
The entire procedure usually takes about 1 to 2 hours, depending on the severity of the gum disease. Most patients experience only minor discomfort during the procedure and can return to their normal activities shortly afterward.
Benefits of LANAP Therapy for Advanced Gum Disease
No sharp tools, no sutures, no pain! LANAP therapy offers many advantages over traditional gum surgery, making it a popular choice for patients with advanced gum disease. Here are some key benefits:
Minimally Invasive: Unlike traditional gum surgery, which involves cutting and stitching the gums, LANAP therapy is minimally invasive. The laser targets only the infected tissue, leaving the healthy gum tissue undisturbed. This means there is less pain, less bleeding, and a quicker recovery time.
Faster Recovery: LANAP therapy is less invasive than traditional surgery, so the recovery time is much shorter. Most patients can return to their normal activities within a day or two, and the healing process is generally quicker. There is also a reduced risk of complications, such as infection or swelling, compared to traditional surgical methods.
Effective Treatment: LANAP therapy is highly effective at treating advanced gum disease. It can help reduce gum inflammation, eliminate harmful bacteria, and promote the regeneration of gum tissue. The procedure has been shown to restore the health of the gums and improve the overall condition of the mouth.
Preservation of Healthy Tissue: One of the biggest advantages of LANAP therapy is that it allows the dentist to preserve healthy gum tissue. Unlike traditional surgery, which involves cutting away large amounts of gum tissue, LANAP focuses only on the infected areas, leaving the surrounding healthy tissue intact. This helps to maintain the natural shape of the gums and the overall appearance of the smile.
Reduced Pain and Discomfort: Because LANAP therapy is minimally invasive and uses a laser instead of traditional scalpels, many patients experience less pain and discomfort during and after the procedure. The laser also helps to seal the gum tissue, which reduces bleeding and promotes faster healing.
Long-Term Results: LANAP therapy can provide long-term results for patients with advanced gum disease. By removing infected tissue and promoting gum regeneration, the procedure helps to prevent further progression of gum disease and restores the overall health of the gums. This can improve the appearance of the gums and help patients avoid the need for more invasive treatments in the future.
LANAP Therapy: FAQs
Q: Is LANAP therapy safe?
A: Yes, LANAP therapy is a safe and FDA-approved procedure. It is performed by a trained dental professional like Dr. Long and has been shown to be effective in treating advanced gum disease with minimal risk.
Q: How long does the LANAP procedure take?
A: The LANAP procedure typically takes about 1 to 2 hours, depending on the severity of the gum disease. You can expect to spend the majority of the appointment in the dental chair, but the procedure is relatively quick and minimally invasive.
Q: Does LANAP therapy hurt?
A: Most patients report little to no pain during the LANAP procedure. The laser is designed to minimize discomfort, and local anesthesia is used to ensure that you remain comfortable during the treatment. After the procedure, there may be some mild soreness or discomfort, but it is usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Q: What is the recovery time after LANAP therapy?
A: The recovery time after LANAP therapy is typically much shorter than traditional gum surgery. Most patients can return to their normal activities within a day or two. Some mild discomfort, swelling, or sensitivity may occur in the days following the procedure, but this usually resolves quickly. One of the benefits of LANAP is that there is no need for sutures, which need a much longer period of modified lifestyle and recovery.
Q: Will I need follow-up treatments?
A: Follow-up treatments may be necessary to monitor your progress and ensure that your gums are healing properly. Your dentist will provide you with instructions on how to care for your gums after the procedure and may recommend additional visits to track your recovery.
Q: How effective is LANAP therapy for advanced gum disease?
A: LANAP therapy is highly effective in treating advanced gum disease. It helps to remove infected tissue, reduce gum inflammation, and promote the regeneration of healthy gum tissue. Many patients experience significant improvements in their gum health after the procedure.