by Rana Baroudi
Dr. Baroudi is a Board Certified Periodontist. She has successfully passed the American Board of Periodontology oral and written examinations covering all phases of periodontal disease, its treatment and dental implants. She is also an Associate Clinical Professor of Periodontology at UCSF where she enjoys teaching and lecturing on a bi-monthly basis.
Learn MoreGum disease, or periodontal disease, affects millions of people each year. Left untreated, it can result in tooth loss, bone deterioration, and other serious health complications. Over the years, traditional treatments for advanced gum disease have involved surgical procedures that, while effective, can be invasive and uncomfortable for patients. Fortunately, modern dental technology offers a gentler, less invasive alternative: LANAP.
This innovative technique is transforming the way periodontists treat gum disease, providing patients with a more comfortable experience and improved outcomes. If you’ve been diagnosed with gum disease or are searching for the best solution to restore your gum health, understanding LANAP could be the key to a healthier smile.
LANAP, or Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure, is a cutting-edge dental treatment designed to address moderate to severe gum disease. Unlike traditional methods that involve scalpels and sutures, LANAP uses an FDA-cleared laser to target and remove diseased gum tissue while preserving healthy tissue.
The goal of this therapy is to stimulate the body’s natural ability to regenerate bone and gum tissue, reducing pocket depth around the teeth and promoting reattachment of the gums. Because LANAP is minimally invasive, it offers a quicker recovery and less discomfort compared to traditional gum surgery.
The LANAP procedure involves several precise steps that work together to eradicate infection and restore periodontal health:
Throughout the entire process, LANAP minimizes trauma to the gums, reduces bleeding, and accelerates recovery.
Patients and dental professionals are increasingly opting for LANAP for several compelling reasons:
What makes LANAP so effective is the use of a specialized PerioLase® MVP-7™ dental laser. This device operates at a specific wavelength that targets pigmented bacteria and diseased tissue while sparing healthy gums.
Clinical studies have shown that LANAP can regenerate lost bone and attachment around teeth, a result not typically achieved with conventional surgery. The procedure is supported by over two decades of research, with outcomes demonstrating substantial reductions in pocket depth and improvements in tooth stability.
LANAP is suitable for most adults diagnosed with moderate to severe periodontal disease. It can be an excellent alternative for patients who:
Your periodontist will perform a thorough evaluation to determine if LANAP is the best choice for your specific needs.
One of the main advantages of LANAP is the positive patient experience. Most treatments are completed in two sessions, each lasting about two hours, although the exact timeline depends on the extent of the disease.
During the procedure, patients are usually given local anesthesia to ensure comfort. After treatment, mild soreness or sensitivity may occur, but these symptoms are generally manageable with over-the-counter pain medication. The vast majority of patients are able to resume their daily activities within 24 hours.
Follow-up visits are essential to monitor healing and ensure the success of the therapy. Your periodontist will provide personalized oral hygiene instructions to help you maintain your results.
The advantages of LANAP extend beyond oral health. Treating gum disease can help reduce systemic inflammation and lower the risk of related health problems, including heart disease, diabetes complications, and respiratory issues. Because LANAP is less invasive and promotes natural healing, patients often experience an overall improvement in well-being.
Is LANAP safe?
Yes, LANAP is FDA-cleared and considered safe when performed by a trained periodontist.
Does the laser hurt?
Most patients feel little to no discomfort during or after the LANAP procedure. Local anesthetic ensures a painless experience.
Will my gums look different?
Unlike traditional surgery, LANAP minimizes gum recession, helping you maintain a natural and aesthetically pleasing smile.
How long do the results last?
With good oral hygiene and regular dental visits, the results of LANAP can be long-lasting. Most patients see significant improvement in gum health and tooth stability.
Choosing to treat gum disease with LANAP is about more than just convenience or comfort—it’s about protecting your long-term oral and overall health. By embracing modern technology and a minimally invasive approach, patients can enjoy effective results with minimal disruption to their lives. If you’re struggling with gum disease or have been told you need periodontal surgery, discussing LANAP with your periodontist could open the door to a healthier smile and a brighter future.
