Gum disease isn’t widely talked about, but can have a big impact on your life. Patients suffering from gum disease often feel less confident and fear losing their teeth. Our office is certified in a unique laser gum disease treatment, the LANAP protocol.
The LANAP® protocol uses a special dental laser, the PerioLase® MVP-7™. A tiny fiber about the width of three human hairs in inserted between the gum tissue and teeth, where it targets and destroys bacteria deep within the pockets of the gums without affecting healthy tissue.
Because of the gentle nature of the procedure, patients typically see immediate results with less bleeding when brushing and less bad breath. Of course, your gums need time to recover and heal, but after LANAP® treatment, you can drive your car, go back to work, or do anything else you like.
Patient Benefits:
- Faster Healing – LANAP® is minimally invasive and allows the body to recover and heal more quickly.
- Less Discomfort – Patients report less discomfort during and after surgery.
- Minimal Recovery Time – Most patients can immediately return to their daily routine.
- Little to No Gum Recession – Because the procedure doesn’t require cutting the gums, there is less risk of recession and your beautiful smile is maintained.
- Reduction in Gum Inflammation and Bleeding – The PerioLase® MVP-7™ targets inflammatory bacteria without injuring healthy tissue.
- Saves Teeth – Patients can keep their natural teeth sometimes even when the teeth have been deemed ‘hopeless’ with traditional treatments. Keeping your natural teeth has been linked to a longer lifespan!
- Safe for patients with Health Concerns –LANAP® protocol is safe for patients with health concerns such as diabetes, HIV, hemophilia, or those taking medications such as Plavix or aspirin.
How Does It Work?
PerioLase uses a small amount of laser energy directed through a tiny fiber that is gently placed below the gum line. This laser energy removes infected tissue and bacteria from the pocket. Next, an ultrasonic cleaning instrument is used to remove any tartar found on the root surface. Finally, the laser is used once more at a lower setting to gently produce a seal between the gums and the teeth. This seal is similar to a clot or a “band-aid” and should not be disturbed.
Is It Painful?
The procedure itself is virtually painless, but we will always anesthetize the area. We will also use either conscious sedation or nitrous oxide (laughing gas) to be determined during your consultation with the doctor.
How Long Will It Take?
If you are having your whole mouth done, we can accomplish this in one or two visits to be determined at your consultation. If we are only treating a few teeth or a section of your mouth, one visit is all that is needed.
*While treatment is completed in one to two visits, there are several follow-up visits required to ensure the success of the procedure.
Does Laser Therapy Cost More Than Traditional Gum Surgery?
While laser therapy is a technologically advanced procedure, we do not feel as though it should cost patients any more than traditional gum surgery. At Periodontal Associates, we charge the same fee whether you are receiving laser therapy or traditional gum surgery.