Advanced periodontal disease threatens not only your oral health but your overall well-being, potentially leading to tooth loss, bone deterioration, and systemic health complications. Traditional treatment methods often require invasive surgical procedures with lengthy recovery times and significant discomfort. LANAP (Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure) revolutionizes periodontal treatment by using precise laser technology to eliminate diseased tissue while promoting natural regeneration of healthy gums and bone.
At Rockland Dental Specialists, our periodontists and implant specialists use LANAP to provide patients with a minimally invasive alternative to conventional periodontal surgery. With over 24 years of combined experience in periodontics, implants, and endodontics, our team understands how to leverage advanced laser technology to achieve superior outcomes. Dr. Shalom Mintz, board-certified in periodontics and implantology, along with Dr. David Peto, have helped countless patients restore their periodontal health through this innovative treatment approach.
Understanding LANAP Technology
LANAP represents a significant advancement in periodontal treatment, using the PerioLase MVP-7 laser system to target diseased tissue with remarkable precision. The laser energy selectively removes bacteria and infected tissue while leaving healthy tissue intact, creating an optimal environment for healing and regeneration. This targeted approach eliminates the need for traditional scalpel incisions and sutures, dramatically reducing patient discomfort and recovery time.
The laser wavelength specifically targets the pigments found in diseased tissue and bacteria, making it highly effective at eliminating infection while preserving healthy structures. Chronic periodontitis affects 47.2% of adults over 30 in the United States, making advanced treatment options like LANAP increasingly important for maintaining oral health. The procedure stimulates the body’s natural healing response, encouraging the formation of new bone and connective tissue attachment around affected teeth.
Key Benefits of LANAP Treatment
LANAP offers numerous advantages over traditional periodontal surgery, making it an attractive option for patients with advanced gum disease. The minimally invasive nature of the procedure means less trauma to surrounding tissues, resulting in significantly reduced pain and swelling compared to conventional surgical methods. Most patients can return to normal activities within 24-48 hours, rather than the weeks of recovery typically required after traditional periodontal surgery.
The precision of laser surgery allows our periodontists and implant specialists to preserve more healthy tooth structure and gum tissue. Traditional surgery often requires removing significant amounts of gum tissue, which can lead to increased tooth sensitivity and aesthetic concerns. LANAP maintains the natural gum line while effectively treating the underlying infection, providing better long-term cosmetic results.
Enhanced Healing and Regeneration
One of LANAP’s most significant advantages is its ability to promote true periodontal regeneration rather than just repair. The laser energy stimulates the formation of new bone, cementum, and periodontal ligament, essentially reversing some of the damage caused by advanced periodontal disease. This regenerative capacity makes LANAP particularly valuable for patients who might otherwise require tooth extraction and dental implant placement.
The procedure also creates an environment that discourages bacterial recolonization, helping prevent disease recurrence. The laser energy modifies the root surface in a way that promotes healthy tissue attachment while making it more difficult for harmful bacteria to establish new colonies. This biological advantage contributes to the long-term success of LANAP treatment and helps patients maintain their natural teeth.
Treatment Process and Recovery
The LANAP procedure typically requires two visits, with each session treating half of the mouth to ensure patient comfort and optimal healing. During treatment, the laser removes diseased tissue and bacteria from periodontal pockets while simultaneously sealing blood vessels and nerve endings, which minimizes bleeding and discomfort. The entire process is performed under local anesthesia, ensuring patient comfort throughout the procedure.
Recovery from LANAP is remarkably smooth compared to traditional periodontal surgery. Patients experience minimal swelling and discomfort, often requiring only over-the-counter pain medications for management. The absence of sutures eliminates the need for suture removal appointments, and most patients can resume normal oral hygiene practices within days of treatment.
Post-treatment care involves modified oral hygiene techniques and regular follow-up appointments to monitor healing progress. Our team provides detailed instructions to optimize recovery and ensure long-term success. The regenerative healing process continues for several months after treatment, with continued improvement in periodontal health often observed for up to a year following the procedure.
Restore Your Periodontal Health with Advanced Laser Treatment
LANAP represents the future of periodontal treatment, offering patients a comfortable, effective alternative to traditional surgery while promoting true regeneration of periodontal tissues. Our experienced periodontists and implant specialists have the expertise and technology necessary to provide this advanced treatment option to patients throughout the region. Dr. Shalom Mintz, Dr. Lisa Nava Cohen, and Dr. Rachel Snyder remain committed to staying at the forefront of periodontal innovation to offer the best possible outcomes for their patients.
If you’re struggling with advanced periodontal disease, don’t let fear of traditional surgery prevent you from seeking treatment. LANAP may provide the solution you need to restore your periodontal health while preserving your natural teeth and maintaining your quality of life. Contact us today at (845) 400-9205 or visit our contact page to schedule a consultation and learn how LANAP can benefit your specific situation.
