If you’ve been told you have gum disease, you may feel anxious about the idea of traditional gum surgery. Fortunately, there’s a cutting-edge, minimally invasive alternative that can help treat gum disease without the need for scalpels or stitches: the LANAP® procedure. At Cary Family Dental in Cary, IL, we offer this advanced laser treatment to help our patients achieve healthier gums in a more comfortable and less intimidating way. So, what exactly is LANAP, and how does it work?
What Does LANAP Stand For?
LANAP stands for Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure. It’s the only FDA-approved laser treatment specifically designed to treat periodontal disease by targeting and removing diseased gum tissue while preserving healthy tissue. Unlike traditional gum surgery, which typically involves cutting away infected tissue and suturing the gums, LANAP uses a precise laser to eliminate bacteria and promote the natural healing of your gums and bone.
How Does The LANAP Procedure Work?
The LANAP procedure is performed using a specialized PerioLase® MVP-7™ laser. Here’s a simplified step-by-step look at what happens during treatment:
1. Targeting The Infection
The laser is used to gently access and remove the infected gum tissue surrounding the tooth. Because the laser is highly specific, it can distinguish between diseased and healthy tissue, leaving the healthy parts intact.
2. Cleaning The Tooth Roots
Once the infected tissue is removed, the dentist will use ultrasonic scaling instruments to clean the tooth roots. This step helps eliminate tartar buildup and further reduces the bacteria responsible for the infection.
3. Promoting Regeneration
After cleaning, the LANAP laser is used again to create a stable blood clot, which helps the gum tissue reattach to the tooth and promotes the regeneration of bone and tissue.
Benefits of LANAP Over Traditional Gum Surgery
One of the most significant benefits of LANAP is that it’s minimally invasive. This means:
1. No Cutting or Sutures
The procedure doesn’t involve scalpels or stitches, so you can say goodbye to the anxiety of sharp tools!
2. Less Gum Recession
Because healthy tissue is preserved, there is less gum recession, so you’re not sacrificing gum coverage for healthier tissue.
3. Faster Healing Time
Most patients experience quicker recovery and can get back to their usual routine in no time.
4. Stimulates Bone Growth
LANAP is the only laser treatment that has been shown to help regenerate bone lost to gum disease. So, in a way, it’s not just treating the problem—it’s helping your body rebuild and restore!
Who is a Good Candidate for LANAP?
LANAP is ideal for patients with moderate to severe gum disease who want a less invasive treatment option. It’s especially beneficial for patients who are hesitant to undergo traditional gum surgery or those who may not be able to tolerate it due to medical reasons. If you’ve been diagnosed with periodontal disease, LANAP could be the solution you’ve been looking for to restore your gum health comfortably and effectively.
Experience Advanced Gum Treatment at Cary Family Dental in Cary, IL
Gum disease doesn’t have to mean painful surgery or long recovery times. At Cary Family Dental in Cary, IL, Dr. Niraj Patel and our team are proud to offer the LANAP gum procedure to treat periodontal disease with less discomfort and faster healing. If the thought of traditional gum surgery makes you cringe, LANAP might just be the gentle alternative you need. Contact us today to learn more about how LANAP can help you achieve healthier gums and a happier smile—without the stress of conventional surgery!
Schedule your appointment today to keep your smile healthy and bright!