Gum disease is a severe condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It leads to embarrassing bad breath, uncomfortable bleeding gums, and unsightly tooth loss. Antibiotics, traditional gum surgery, and laser gum surgery like LANAP® are among the various treatment options available for gum disease.
Traditional gum surgery is typically effective and reliable. But as an invasive procedure, it requires more recovery time. For this reason, most periodontists are turning to LANAP for a less invasive and more comfortable treatment for gum disease.
LANAP, or laser-assisted new attachment procedure, is a minimally invasive gum surgery. It treats periodontitis, the gum disease that affects the gums and bones supporting the teeth. It uses a laser to remove diseased gum tissue.
The laser treatment promotes the regeneration of healthy tissue. LANAP is a practical alternative to traditional gum surgery. It does not require incision and sutures.
The periodontist will remove bacteria and diseased gum tissue around the teeth. The laser used will stimulate the growth of healthy bone and gum tissue. As it does, it helps regenerate the gums and prevent further damage. The laser used in LANAP precisely targets the diseased tissue without targeting the healthy one. The procedure is less painful and requires a short recovery period.
The length of the procedure depends on the extent of the periodontitis and the number of teeth needing treatment. Typically, a LANAP can take between two to four hours. However, it can take longer for more extensive cases.
LANAP is more comfortable and less invasive than traditional gum surgery. Patients experience less swelling and pain and a shorter recovery time. The laser targets the diseased tissue with accuracy and precision. In doing so, it leaves the healthy tissue intact and helps promote the growth of new tissue and bone.
LANAP is an effective treatment for periodontitis. Studies show that it significantly reduces the depth of periodontal pockets. It improves gum health and prevents tooth loss and other related complications.
LANAP is not an ideal procedure for everyone. Experts recommend it for patients with moderate to severe periodontitis and those who do not respond to other forms of treatment. Patients with some medical conditions or those taking certain medications may not be good candidates for LANAP.
Recovery after a LANAP procedure is much shorter and less painful than traditional gum surgery. You may experience discomfort and swelling for the first few days after the procedure. However, over-the-counter pain medications can help manage the pain.
Experts advise patients to avoid spicy, crunchy, and hard foods for the first few days after the procedure. In doing so, you prevent irritating your gums. Most patients resume their daily activities within a few days after the procedure.
However, it may take a few weeks for your gums to heal. You must follow a strict oral hygiene regimen after laser gum surgery. It will include brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash to promote healing and prevent infection.
For more about LANAP, visit Implant Dentistry Periodontics & Facial Rejuvenation at our office in Tampa or Wesley Chapel, Florida. Call 813.517.0100 or 813.973.7770 to book an appointment today.
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