LANAP®

What is LANAP®?

LANAP® (Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure) is an FDA-cleared laser treatment which offers a less painful, more successful treatment alternative to conventional surgery. LANAP® is a similar treatment used when the patient has dental implants.

LANAP® is scientifically-proven to result in periodontal regeneration, new bone growth, and gum tissue reattachment.LANAP® is one of the most successful treatments for gum disease because it can target the source of the inflammation without harming or removing any healthy gum tissue, slow or stop attachment loss, decrease pocket depth, and remove the infection without incisions or stitches.

What is the LANAP® Procedure at Central Ohio Periodontics?

LANAP® is a procedure designed to treat gum disease without surgery. As with periodontal surgery, the removal of bacteria allows the body to heal naturally so the gum pockets improve and the teeth become more stable.

For the LANAP® procedure, Dr. Sakamoto uses a specialized dental laser that targets diseased tissue while bypassing the healthy tissue. The laser eliminates bacteria and interacts with the healthy tissue to create more stability for the tooth.

The process begins with laser radiation that vaporizes bacteria, diseased tissue, and pathologic proteins, and alerts the practitioner of tartar. Root surface secretions are removed, the bone is modified as needed, then the gums are reattached to the now-clean root surface. As the gums heal, the new attachment regenerates.  

What is the difference between Traditional Surgery vs. Laser Gum Surgery?

Traditional gum surgery involves removing extra gum tissue and reshaping the bone, so the process is inherently more painful and requires a longer recovery period than laser gum surgery. During traditional surgery, Dr. Sakamoto must lift and roll the gum back and remove the bacteria and diseased gum tissue. Sometimes the bone must be smoothed to decrease pits and irregular areas to ward off bacteria. Before the gum flap is sewn shut, it may be necessary to apply a substance to the root and foster the attachment of the gums and ligaments. Dr. Sakamoto will then cauterize the treated areas to seal them off and reduce bleeding.

LANAP® has completely transformed the way dental professionals approach periodontal disease. Because Dr. Sakamoto does not use a scalpel or sutures when performing LANAP®, there is significantly less pain and healing time associated with this type of procedure. These benefits are possible because of the PerioLase® MVP-7™, a one-of-a-kind piece of equipment with the technology to target and remove only the diseased tissue and bacteria while leaving the healthy gum tissue intact.

If you are interested in learning if LANAP® is right for you, contact us today at  614-575-0070 or office@centralohioperiodontics.com.  We welcome you to our office and encourage you to schedule your appointment today!