LANAP: Advanced Laser Gum Treatment for Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease, often referred to as gum disease, affects nearly half of all adults over the age of 30. If left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss, bone damage, and a host of other health issues. Fortunately, advances in dental technology have led to a groundbreaking treatment known as LANAP (Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure). This minimally invasive laser treatment offers a highly effective, comfortable way to treat advanced gum disease and restore oral health.

At South University Dental Associates, we are proud to provide LANAP treatment in Fargo for patients seeking relief from gum disease without the discomfort of traditional surgery. In this post, we’ll explore what LANAP is, how it works, why it’s one of the best options for treating periodontal disease, and what to expect during the recovery process.

What is LANAP?

LANAP stands for Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure, a cutting-edge treatment used to fight gum disease. Unlike traditional gum surgery, which involves cutting into the gums to remove diseased tissue, LANAP uses a specialized laser to target and remove only the infected tissue. This preserves as much healthy tissue as possible and promotes natural healing and regeneration.

LANAP is FDA-approved and has been extensively researched, demonstrating remarkable success in reversing gum disease and promoting tissue reattachment. For patients with moderate to severe gum disease, LANAP offers a less invasive, quicker recovery alternative to traditional periodontal surgery.

How LANAP Works

LANAP uses a PerioLase® MVP-7 laser, a highly sophisticated dental laser that is specifically designed to remove bacteria and diseased tissue from the gums. The procedure follows these key steps:

  1. Laser Treatment – The dentist uses the laser to precisely target and remove the diseased tissue, while leaving the healthy tissue intact.
  2. Scaling and Root Planing – After the diseased tissue is removed, the dentist cleans and smooths the tooth roots to eliminate tartar and plaque buildup.
  3. Laser Reapplication – The laser is used again to sterilize the area, helping to kill any remaining bacteria and encouraging the gums to reattach to the teeth naturally.
  4. Clot Formation – The laser also promotes clotting, which helps the gums heal faster and minimizes bleeding.

This entire process is completed in a much less invasive manner than traditional surgery, making it a more comfortable experience for patients. In most cases, LANAP therapy requires fewer follow-up visits and results in a quicker recovery.

Recovery After LANAP Treatment

One of the most significant advantages of LANAP over traditional gum surgery is the shorter, more comfortable recovery time. Here’s what patients can expect post-treatment:

  • Faster Healing: Most patients experience noticeable healing within 24 hours after the procedure. While full recovery may take a few weeks, LANAP's minimally invasive nature allows for much quicker recovery compared to traditional gum surgery, which can take several weeks.
  • Minimal Discomfort: Since no scalpels or stitches are involved, patients typically report much less pain and discomfort after LANAP. Any post-procedure discomfort is often mild and can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
  • Less Bleeding and Swelling: The laser technology used in LANAP helps minimize bleeding and swelling during and after the procedure, making recovery more comfortable.
  • Dietary Adjustments: For the first week following the procedure, you may be advised to stick to a soft food diet to avoid putting pressure on the treated gums. Your dentist will provide detailed post-treatment care instructions to ensure optimal healing.
  • Follow-Up Visits: While initial healing happens relatively fast, full regeneration of gum tissue and bone can take several months. Your dentist will schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and ensure the treatment is successful.

Overall, LANAP allows patients to enjoy a much easier recovery, getting back to their daily routines much sooner than with conventional gum surgery.

Benefits of LANAP Treatment

LANAP offers numerous advantages over conventional gum surgery, making it an attractive option for patients dealing with advanced gum disease:

  1. Minimally Invasive
    Unlike traditional surgery, LANAP does not require scalpels or stitches. The laser allows for precise removal of only the infected tissue, preserving as much healthy gum tissue as possible.
  2. Faster Healing Time
    With traditional surgery, recovery can take weeks and often involves significant discomfort. LANAP promotes quicker healing with minimal post-procedure pain and bleeding, allowing patients to return to their regular activities much sooner.
  3. Less Pain and Discomfort
    Patients who undergo LANAP treatment typically report far less pain and discomfort compared to traditional gum surgery. Many only require over-the-counter pain medication after the procedure.
  4. Promotes Natural Regeneration
    LANAP encourages the regeneration of lost bone and tissue by stimulating the body's natural healing response. This makes it a more effective long-term solution for those suffering from gum disease.
  5. Reduced Risk of Tooth Loss
    Because LANAP works to stop gum disease and restore gum health, it significantly reduces the risk of tooth loss, which is common in advanced cases of periodontal disease.
  6. Effective Bacterial Removal
    The laser technology used in LANAP is highly effective at removing the bacteria that cause gum disease, ensuring a thorough clean and reducing the chance of infection.

Is LANAP Right for You?

LANAP is ideal for patients with moderate to severe periodontal disease who are looking for a minimally invasive alternative to traditional gum surgery. It’s also a great option for those who may have avoided treatment due to fear of pain or lengthy recovery times.

At South University Dental Associates, we take a patient-centered approach to periodontal care. When you come in for a consultation, Dr. Chad Bergan, Dr. Walter Samuel, Dr. Todd DeBates, or Dr. Alex Althoff will assess the severity of your gum disease and determine if LANAP is the best course of treatment for your unique situation.

Why Choose South University Dental Associates for LANAP in Fargo?

Our skilled team of dentists has extensive experience in LANAP treatment and is committed to providing the highest level of care in a comfortable and compassionate environment. We’ve been trusted by families in Fargo for decades, and our goal is to help each patient achieve optimal oral health.

If you’re struggling with gum disease, it’s important not to delay treatment. LANAP offers a modern, effective solution to restore your gums to health and protect your teeth.

Schedule Your LANAP Consultation Today

If you’re ready to take the next step toward healthier gums with LANAP, we’re here to help. Contact South University Dental Associates today to schedule your consultation. You can call us at (701) 232-8884 or book an appointment online here.

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