LANAP is a special periodontal procedure to help combat gum disease. This article will discuss the procedure, and how it can be a good option for patients suffering from gum disease.

What Does LANAP Stand For?

LANAP is an acronym for Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure. It is a laser-guided treatment that is much less invasive than dental surgeries that accomplish similar results. LANAP uses an FDA-approved, PerioLase MVP-7 laser. Overall, the treatment and recovery is much less painful than more traditional procedures.

Can Any Dentist Provide LANAP?

No. In order for a dentist to offer LANAP treatments, they must undergo a year-long intensive training course. Dentists are trained to provide the procedure through strict oversight and high standards. Because of this, few dentists are allowed to provide the service. Only dentists who receive a LANAP proficiency certificate can perform the procedure.

How Does the Procedure Work?

Overall, LANAP is an alternative procedure to traditional gum disease surgery. The dentist uses a laser to target and remove diseased tissue, rather than scalpels. Because of this, the treatment is far less painful and much less invasive. First, your healthcare professional will probe your gums. This will help determine the level of care needed per tooth. Next, the laser destroys any infection-causing bacteria. Then, ultrasonic scalers and other tools remove tartar buildup. After that, the laser is used to reattach gum tissue to the roots. Lastly, the teeth are ground down to prevent further tartar formation.

How Long Does the Procedure Take?

Generally, LANAP can take roughly an hour. However, this can be longer or shorter, depending on the extent of your gum disease. For more advanced cases, you may require procedures over 2 visits, instead.

LANAP Recovery Time

While traditional periodontal surgery can require 2-4 weeks of recovery, LANAP has a much shorter recovery window. Most patients experience minimal pain during the 24 hours after treatment. After that, you should not brush or floss for roughly 7-10 days after treatment. With no sutures, there is little to no lasting discomfort.

Is the Procedure Dangerous?

While there are inherent risks with any medical procedure, it is a relatively safe procedure. Your healthcare provider will be able to discuss with you any associated risks. LANAP uses an FDA-approved laser that only interacts with the harmful bacteria in your mouth. The laser does not use radiation. It also does not interact with your other medications. You may need dental x-rays before the procedure, but they have minimal risk. Your dentist will be able to discuss with you any risks associated with treatments, as well as address any of your other concerns.
Smoking may lengthen the recovery time and increase complication risks. Smoking can also increase the risk of infection during recovery. It is generally recommended that you quit smoking before treatment.

LANAP Treatments at A Center For Dental Excellence

A Center for Dental Excellence offers expert LANAP treatments to our clients that may benefit from them. For more information, schedule a consultation appointment with our dental specialists. LANAP treatments may be covered by your insurance.

A Center for Dental Excellence does not provide medical or healthcare advice via articles. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only. It is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for medical advice.
A Center for Dental Excellence provides expert dental care to the Brooklyn and Staten Island communities we serve. To schedule an appointment or consultation, contact us or call the office you would like to visit. (718) 232-8289 for Brooklyn, and (718) 980-9555 for Staten Island.