Endodontics
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LANAP® Laser Gum Therapy
Modern Treatment for Gum Disease
Periodontal (gum) disease is a leading cause of gum recession, loose teeth, and bone loss. At Roots & Gums of the Tri‑Valley, we offer LANAP® (Laser‑Assisted New Attachment Procedure) — a modern, minimally invasive laser treatment that helps restore gum health without the discomfort and recovery time of traditional surgery.
LANAP stands for Laser‑Assisted New Attachment Procedure. It is an advanced laser protocol developed for the treatment of moderate to severe gum disease.
Unlike traditional gum surgery that uses scalpels and stitches, LANAP uses a specialized dental laser to remove disease‑causing tissue and bacteria while preserving healthy gums. The procedure is FDA‑cleared and designed to help the body regenerate supportive gum and bone tissue that has been lost to periodontal disease.
How LANAP Works
- Assessment & Local Anesthesia: We begin by thoroughly examining your gums and numbing the treatment area for comfort.
- Laser Treatment: A tiny laser fiber — about the width of three human hair — is placed along the gum pocket. The laser selectively targets and removes infected tissue and bacteria, leaving healthy tissue intact.
- Cleaning Root Surfaces: After the laser step, ultrasonic and hand instruments gently remove hardened deposits (tartar) from the tooth roots.
- Tissue Regeneration: The laser is used again to encourage a natural clot to form, which helps the gums reattach to the tooth and supports healing.
Because no cutting or sewing is required, most patients respond well with less pain and quicker recovery than traditional surgery.
Benefits of LANAP
LANAP offers several advantages over conventional gum surgery:
- Less invasive: No scalpels or sutures needed.
- Faster healing: Most patients return to daily routine quickly.
- Less discomfort: Minimal swelling, bleeding, and sensitivity.
- Preserves healthy tissue: Only diseased areas are removed.
- Encourages regeneration: The laser helps stimulate gum and bone attachment.
These benefits can make LANAP a better choice for patients who want effective treatment with less downtime and discomfort.
Who is a Good Candidate for LANAP
LANAP is ideal for individuals who are dealing with moderate to severe gum disease and want an alternative to traditional gum surgery. Here are some common characteristics of good LANAP candidates:
- Moderate to advanced gum disease: If you’ve noticed signs of gum recession, bleeding, or swollen gums, LANAP can help treat these conditions effectively.
- Deep periodontal pockets: LANAP is highly effective for patients with pockets between the gums and teeth that are difficult to clean and have become infected.
- Previous treatments with limited success: If you’ve tried non-surgical treatments or other procedures in the past, but the disease has persisted, LANAP might be the solution you need.
- Desire to avoid traditional gum surgery: If you’re looking for a treatment that requires no cutting or stitching, LANAP is an excellent alternative that offers a quicker recovery time.
Before proceeding with LANAP, your periodontist will conduct a thorough evaluation, including an assessment of your gum tissue, bone density, and overall oral health. They will also discuss your medical history and help determine if LANAP is the most suitable treatment for your specific needs. By evaluating these factors, we can ensure that you receive the best possible care tailored to your health and comfort.