LANAP (Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure) surgery is a procedure used for treating gum disease. Laser therapy offers a non-invasive option for patients with periodontal or gum disease. Patients suffering from gum disease experience unpleasant symptoms that can lead to low self-esteem. The condition affects not just the smile but also the general health. The treatment offers a quick and easy solution, and it is highly effective.
Understanding Gum Disease
Periodontal or gum disease causes the gums to become compromised. Over time, gum attachments become weak and pull away, causing the teeth to become loose. Treating gum disease involves facilitating healthy gum tissue production.
Treatment aims to ensure faster healing of the diseased gum tissue. Most traditional treatments take a long period before the desired results can be achieved. The process supports the attachment of the tissue to the jawbone.
Symptoms of Gum Disease
Symptoms of gum disease can be subtle in the early stages when they are painless. There are several symptoms of gum disease. These include bad breath and a bad taste in the mouth.
Other symptoms include bleeding gums, tender gums, receding gums, and loose teeth. Early treatment of gum disease is important. It can prevent serious complications that include the loss of teeth.
How LANAP Surgery Works
The surgery results in reduced dental loss after the procedure. LANAP involves the use of targeted light frequency to extract diseased gum tissue. The laser helps destroy infection, which results in faster healing while encouraging the development of new healthy tissue.
The process of removing diseased tissue and restoring healthy tissue reduces trauma to the gums. This paves the way for complete gum regeneration. The procedure is faster and less painful, making it easier on patients.
Preparing for LANAP
LANAP surgery is performed by a qualified dentist or periodontist. The treatment is quite effective, and there is less bleeding and less pain and sensitivity. The procedure is not as expensive as most people assume. It costs about the same as traditional gum surgery. The procedure is covered by most insurance carriers.
LANAP Procedure – What to Expect
During the LANAP treatment, the specialist will begin by probing the gums to determine the areas that need treatment. A laser will then be used to remove the bacteria causing the infection. Ultrasonic scalers are used to remove tartar. The spaces or pockets are then molded to prevent new tartar formation.
The laser will then be used to connect the gum tissue onto the root. The pockets are sealed using fibrin clots before polishing the teeth to prevent new tartar formation. The entire process can take about one hour depending on the extent of the condition.
After LANAP Surgery
LANAP treatment can be completed in one or two visits depending on the extent of the disease. After the procedure, the patient can go back to normal life with minimal pain. Unlike traditional surgical procedures, you do not have to worry about sutures or lasting discomfort. Full recovery usually takes about 24 hours.
It is important to note that LANAP may not be right for you if you have advanced periodontal disease. If you have signs of gum disease, talk to your dentist about the treatment.
To learn more about LANAP surgery, visit Implant Dentistry Periodontics & Facial Rejuvenation at our offices in Tampa or Wesley Chapel, Florida. You can also call 813.517.0100 or 813.973.7770 to schedule an appointment today.