Gum disease is a common dental issue that affects many people. Without treatment, it can progress into a more severe condition called periodontitis. Periodontitis can lead to tooth loss and other serious health problems. Fortunately, advancements in dental technology make it easier to treat even the most severe gum disease. One of the most effective periodontal treatments for advanced gum disease is Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure, or LANAP therapy.
Dr. Craig Long and his team at Advanced Dental Associates provide a new procedure to help patients with advanced gum disease improve their gum health without surgery.
What is LANAP Therapy?
LANAP therapy is a modern laser treatment that helps fight advanced gum disease without traditional surgery. This FDA-approved procedure uses a special laser to remove infected gum tissue while keeping healthy tissue safe. The laser also encourages the gums to heal and grow back. It’s a great option for patients dealing with periodontitis or other serious gum issues.
At our San Antonio dental office, LANAP therapy is usually done in two visits. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia so you stay comfortable throughout the process. Many patients find it much easier and less painful than traditional gum surgery.
How Does LANAP Therapy Work?
During the procedure, Dr. Long uses a laser to carefully remove infected gum tissue while leaving healthy tissue untouched. This laser targets harmful bacteria and diseased areas without cutting or stitching, which helps your gums heal faster.
Once the infection is cleared, the laser also helps your gums reattach to your teeth. This removes deep pockets where bacteria can hide. Over time, this process strengthens your gums and lowers the risk of future infections.
What to expect during LANAP treatment:
- The procedure usually takes 1 to 2 hours, depending on how advanced your gum disease is.
- Most patients feel only mild discomfort and recover quickly.
- Since there’s no cutting or stitches, you can return to normal activities soon after the procedure.
LANAP therapy is a safe and effective way to treat gum disease while preserving as much healthy gum tissue as possible. If you’re struggling with bleeding gums, gum recession, or deep pockets, this treatment may be the right solution for you!
Benefits of LANAP Therapy for Advanced Gum Disease
LANAP is a modern, minimally invasive treatment that offers a lot of advantages over traditional gum surgery. Here’s why so many patients love it:
- Minimally Invasive: Traditional gum surgery often involves cutting and stitching the gums, which can take a long time to heal. LANAP therapy uses a special laser to target only the infected tissue. This means healthy gum tissue is left alone. There’s less pain, less bleeding, and a much quicker recovery.
- Faster Recovery: The recovery time is much shorter than with traditional surgery because LANAP therapy is less invasive. Most patients can get back to their normal routine within a day or two. Plus, there’s less risk of complications like infection or swelling.
- Effective Treatment: LANAP therapy is gentle and highly effective. It helps reduce gum inflammation, kills harmful bacteria, and promotes the growth of healthy gum tissue. Studies show that LANAP can restore gum health and improve the overall condition of your mouth.
- Preserves Healthy Tissue: One of the best things about LANAP therapy is that it focuses only on the infected areas. Traditional surgery often involves cutting away large amounts of gum tissue, which can change the shape of your gums and affect your smile. With LANAP, your gums stay natural-looking and healthy.
- Less Pain and Discomfort: Many patients experience less pain and discomfort during and after the procedure because LANAP therapy uses a laser instead of scalpels. The laser also seals the gum tissue as it works to reduce bleeding and helps you heal faster.
- Long-Term Results: LANAP therapy isn’t just a quick fix. It provides long-term results for patients with advanced gum disease. By removing infected tissue and encouraging gum regeneration, it helps stop gum disease from getting worse. This can improve the look of your gums and help you avoid more invasive treatments down the road.
LANAP Therapy FAQs
Is LANAP therapy safe?
Yes, LANAP therapy is a safe and FDA-approved procedure. It’s performed by a trained dental professional like Dr. Long. It’s effective in treating advanced gum disease with little risk to the rest of your mouth.
How long does the LANAP procedure take?
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.
Does LANAP therapy hurt?
Most patients say they have little to no pain during the LANAP procedure. The laser reduces any pain, and we use local anesthesia to make sure you feel comfy during the treatment. You may feel a little sore afterwards, but it’s usually not a big deal and most manage it with over-the-counter pain meds.
What is the recovery time after LANAP therapy?
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 happen in the days following the procedure. One of the benefits of LANAP is that there are no sutures. This is great because sutures need a much longer period of modified lifestyle and recovery.
Will I need follow-up treatments?
You might need follow-up visits 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. They may suggest additional visits just to track your recovery.
How effective is LANAP therapy for advanced gum disease?
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.
Are you ready to take the next step in improving your gum health? Give Advanced Dental Associates in San Antonio a call at 210-655-2753 or request an appointment online.